At Open Arms Village, four local women are experiencing the power of knowledge. Each of them participate in the home group that is part of Church at The Village and have been invited to join in an “earn while you learn” training program at Open Arms Village.
One of the women, Francine, is a single mother of 10 that is raising her family in a one-room shack. She provides for her family by washing clothes and selling vegetables. Despite their dire financial circumstances, Francine sends all of her children to school because she understands the power of knowledge.
During the training program, each woman is paid to work alongside Open Arms staff harvesting crops and learning new, more effective farming techniques. In addition, the women are learning CPR, first aid and other practical skills that will help them in business and daily life.
Francine shared, “I have been training for two weeks now and I already feel empowered. I now understand what my son means when he tells me that learning gives you something that no one can take away. It gives me a kind of hope that feels different, stronger. I feel confident that I will greatly improve my small businesses when I leave here and that I will be able to better provide for my children as well as teach them what I know. You are not just helping me grow, but we are growing together as a community.”
Thank you for making this life changing opportunity possible for these women. What they are learning will undoubtedly lead to lasting change in their families and community. Your investment is truly paying off in amazing ways!
God bless you,
Kaytie Fiedler Executive Director, Open Arms International U.S.
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