We love to celebrate our kids, and birthdays allow us to do this. Our kids were born into the poorest communities but we surround them with care, love and attention and watch them thrive. In Colombia, many of our children recently celebrated their birthdays together.

This Easter, we had the joy of sending many of our sponsors personal letters and drawings from their children around the world. Child Sponsorship is a fantastic way to impact a child’s life. Sponsorship means a child feels loved, cared for and part of a family.

“Thank you very much for loving and caring for me. I am always thinking of you and praying for you.”

The health of our children is vital to their development and happiness. Many children come into our care neglected and sick, without ever having seen a doctor, dentist or optician. We go the extra mile to ensure they no illness prevents our kids from getting a great education and they can enjoy their childhood.

In February 2021, a military coup spiralled Myanmar into civil unrest, violence and insecurity. Unemployment and food prices rising, coupled with Covid-19, meant millions of people faced starvation. 

Thanks to the generosity of our supporters and our incredible staff, we were able to deliver food parcels to 2,654 families facing starvation.

“As soon as I met Gracious and his brother, I knew that they were among the reasons I was at Open Arms. Everything I have gone through and everything I am, led me to this moment here to help these two boys heal. I know there is a reason why Gracious came to my house. I believe that God put us together” Mama Linet.

After a visit home, Kabin found that his Dalit community were being blocked from the new well in the village, despite their legal right to use the government water supply. Kabin decided to tackle this injustice proactively. He spent his savings to fund another well in the village. This one is open and available to all who need fresh, clean water.

Lidiya joined our Bethany School in Ethiopia, when she was eight years old. Once she joined our Bethany School, Lidiya received a free education, food, and healthcare when needed. She started to thrive. 

"I would like to thank Stand by me for loving me, helping and teaching me. I am here today because of the support I have received from Stand by me. May God bless you all!”

In January, we gave brand new shoes to all 4,250 children in our care! Our children can feel proud as they walk, run or skip to school, knowing their feet are safe and protected.

These shoes are life-changing for our children, whose families cannot afford to give shoes. Many children who recently joined our Stand by Me family, received their first-ever pair of shoes. Our other children now have shoes that fit, are comfortable and supportive.