The primary focus of the children's home in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia is the care of orphans from across the country. With branches located in different parts of the country, the organization is able to find kids that would not be able to travel to the main facility in Ethiopia's capital city due to lack of transportation. The foundation of the orphanage was inspired by a local woman's desire to see the needs met of every child she could. While putting all of her personal belongings and finances into this sanctuary to build it up, it has now grown into a moderate size children's home with approximately 40-50 children awaiting families. Children currently in this home have lost their parents to illness, been relinquished by parents who can't provide, abandoned, or even been found living on the streets trying to sell corn or packages of gum to survive. While visiting multiple orphanages in Addis Ababa, Chase and Jillian Kerlin fell in love with this home and the true family atmosphere the children have while living here. The children here have so much love and respect for one another that is a direct reflection of the "nannies" watching over them. The men and women entrusted with their care interact with the children all day and are invested in their emotional and physical well being. When a child receives a care package from their new adoptive "forever family", the first thing the children do is take all the gifts and pass them out to their friends. It isn't until they have given something to all of their friends that they will finally have something for themselves. The spirit of compassion and sharing between the children is humbling to watch as it is so easy to get caught up in the luxuries we experience in our own lives. They have no anger, bitterness, or greed in their small bodies. They are grateful for every piece of clothing, every meal, warm beds, and love of caretakers bestowed upon them every day. With your help, we can make this orphanage continue to grow and provide for many more children for years to come.
