One of our orphanages is named Imani Children’s Home. The lady who started it was a beautiful model who abandoned her career to care for children. She started with seven street children and took them into her tiny room. Her name is Faith and her love for children is overwhelming. She has been doing it now for 15 years and now she has over 350 children. Their love for her is so evident every time I visit as they all gravitate to their “Mama” whenever they see her.

Her compound is spotless. Everything is cleaned constantly and when we visit the baby compound we must disinfect our shoes before entering. She lovingly cares for over 40 children afflicted with aids. The children are taught at a very early age that they need to learn to work for themselves. They help prepare the meals when they are about 4 years old and by 6 they do their own laundry on the scrub board.

On a recent visit I desired to discuss the budget of her center and she asked me if I wanted to meet  her business manager. I was pleased to hear that she had one and she called for him. In a few minted he showed up. He was 14 years old. He produced his books and went over the financial reports in a very professional manner. He had been taught all his skills in the orphanage. The meal we had during our visit was prepared by a girl no older than 10 years. She did a wonderful job and had learned so many skills she would use throughout her life.

Before we left, Faith had a visit from a gentleman named Morris. He was a college graduate and a successful businessman. In our brief meeting I learned that Faith had found him sniffing glue on the streets as a young boy and took him in many years ago. She cared for him and ensured he obtained all his education including college. He owes his life and future to this sweet lady.

Each of these children are so precious and given the opportunity they all blossom.