On Orphan Sunday, many Christians across the world gather to recognize the plight of the 150 million+ orphans who live today.  I have posted in the past about ways to get involved with orphan care, but I also want to share about a place in China that holds a very special piece of my heart.

When we were paper chasing to bring home our Dumpling, our adoption agency was in the process of setting up a foster center to help some of the children he lived with.  The center was a response to the hard conditions of his orphanage.  It was clear to our agency’s staff that the children there needed more.  More of the most basic needs that are often taken for granted in America.  More love.  More education.  More of everything.  I know how great the needs are still because of my visit there.  It’s an experience I still haven’t been able to write about almost a year later.

That’s why the foster center is so special to our family.  In the southern Chinese city of Zhanjiang, nannies offers unconditional love and the opportunity for 13 children to have a meaningful life.  Even despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles, the foster center exists and is helping the children to thrive.  These children, who were not expected to live much longer, are receiving love and being told how special they are.  They are enjoying life and laughing.  Against all odds, they are learning how to walk and speak.  Nothing is too difficult for God, and it’s a privilege to be a tiny part of His work at this foster center.  I share the work being done there to give others the opportunity to partner with Lifeline Children’s Services.  Together we can make a difference in the lives of these 13 children.