Philemon GROW Project Update October 2024
We are happy to share with you an update about the incredible work happening at the Philemon Project’s center in Bourj Hamoud, Beirut, Lebanon. In the midst of the challenging times that Lebanon is going through, this center is a beacon of hope and transformation for vulnerable and at-risk children. It is a safe place where God’s love is demonstrated to them in tangible ways, in acts of love that transform the hearts of these children and their families. Your generous support makes all the difference in these lives. Together, we can continue to plant seeds of hope, love, and transformation in the lives of these precious families.
A Safe Haven for Vulnerable Children
The Philemon Project’s focus is on early childhood development and parent mentoring, and today, they have about 75 underserved and at-risk children enrolled under the care of 25 dedicated female staff members. This ministry believes in more than just nurturing children – they are empowering women to become the backbone of this community. For some of these children, the meals provided – breakfast, lunch, and snacks – are probably the only food they receive throughout the day. The center ensures that no child goes hungry and even sends home food with some children to share with their families. Beyond that, they distribute milk and other essentials to support these households. It’s more than feeding bodies; it’s about feeding hearts and minds with love and care, showing these young children what it means to be loved and cared for.
Mentoring Parents and Building Community
The Philemon Project also offers parents mentoring programs. Parents are not only given practical advice and tools to help them raise their children, but they are also invited into a loving community where they can be strengthened in their journey. These sessions, led by psychologists, Red Cross volunteers, and other professionals, begin with a gospel message and then transition into practical lessons on parenting. It’s a time of connection, and a chance for children and parents to learn, to support one another, and to experience God’s love in a tangible way. The joy in the room as these families build friendships and grow in their ability to care for their children is nothing short of beautiful. Many of these families come from diverse backgrounds, yet they are all open to experiencing God’s love.
A Vision for Long-lasting Change in Society
The Philemon Project is a prophetic act of love. They are addressing the deep social and emotional trauma within this community, and they are doing so with the belief that the church’s mission is at its best when it reaches out to care for the most vulnerable among us. By offering acts of tangible love, they are not only planting seeds of faith in the hearts of these children and their families, but they are also helping to heal a fractured society. The hope is that these children, who are learning about God’s love in a peaceful and nurturing environment, will grow up with a deep confidence and sense of security, knowing that they are cherished.
Expanding the Vision
The Philemon Project's vision is to replicate this impact and reach even more families. They aim to open a second center this November, but they need financial support to complete the final touches, such as furniture for the new space.
THE OPPORTUNITY
By supporting early childhood development and adult mentoring, this ministry is transforming not only individual lives but entire families. The seeds being planted today will bear fruit for generations. Your support has already made such an incredible difference. We invite you to further participate in this life-changing work. The Outreach Foundation seeks gifts to support the mission and ministry of The Philemon Project GROW. You may make a gift by sending a check to The Outreach Foundation or you can make an online gift via the link below.
Thank you for being part of this movement of grace, compassion, and unwavering faith.