While our hearts always go out to true orphans (children who have lost both parents), there is another large group of needy kids often referred to as semi-orphans. As you might guess, these are children who have lost at least one parent. Because of the realities of living in poorer countries, the surviving parent is often unable to properly care for their children. So, they seek out other living arrangements for them. This is the case for Wensheila.

Wensheila’s mother passed away when she was only three months old. She then spent six months with her grandmother, who couldn’t properly care for her. Her father searched for a home for Wensheila because he thought this would give her the best chance at a better upbringing.

Our partner in Haiti was introduced to the family and learned about their history and circumstances. He welcomed Wensheila into his girls’ home. At first, she was malnourished and very sick, but she eventually got better. After three years, she was enrolled in kindergarten at a nearby mission school.

Wensheila is a joyful and funny girl who loves eating the Feed the Hunger meals she has been receiving since she came into the home. She has been equipped with an Edu-Pack full of school supplies, which will prepare her for primary school, and a New Testament, which will assist her spiritual growth. When she grows up, Wensheila dreams of becoming a teacher. She still gets to visit her father at various times throughout the year, and her life is on a stronger and more hopeful path.

Whether a child lives with a poor family or is an orphan or semi-orphan, God loves them all and so do we. They deserve a better life in order to fulfill their dreams.