Sofiya is 15 years old and lives in a Muslim-majority country in Central Asia. Until recently, her life was much like that of other teenagers — going to school, spending time with friends, and helping care for her little brother Daniel. But everything changed in a single moment.
Sofiya’s father was never part of her life, and for some time, she lived with just her mother and four-year-old brother. Despite financial hardship and limited housing, the family managed. That is, until a devastating accident left her mother with third-degree burns and unable to walk. After several surgeries, her mother was confined to a wheelchair — and Sofiya’s world changed forever.
“My childhood ended that day,” Sofiya shared. “I suddenly became responsible for everything — my mother, my brother, our home. I didn’t know how I would manage school or even imagine a future anymore.”
She had to cook, clean, care for her brother, and give her mother injections and change her dressings. At first, it was overwhelming. Sofiya was afraid of making mistakes — afraid her mother might get worse, or that something would happen to Daniel while she was distracted. Her fear became a constant companion.
A Place of Refuge and Restoration
At the beginning of summer, a woman from a local evangelical church told the team at a local center, which operates with support from Operation Blessing, about Sofiya’s situation. The family was being evicted from their rental home and had nowhere to go. That’s when the project stepped in.
This center helps children from vulnerable families by providing emotional support, material assistance, mentoring, and spiritual guidance. They also work closely with parents to help ensure children receive basic care, education, and encouragement — all while demonstrating the love of Jesus through action.
The first step was to offer Sofiya’s family a safe place to stay. On-site at the center, they were welcomed by a kind woman experienced in caring for people with disabilities. She became a strong support for both the mother and the children.
Then came the second gift: community. Sofiya began participating in the center’s activities and started attending church. It was, in her words, “a breath of fresh air.” She had spent so long alone — worrying, caregiving, and disconnected — and now she found a place where she could grow, heal, and connect with others.
Sofiya joined the teen club and quickly became an active part of the group. She also started attending the School of Life classes, where she learned valuable life skills and more about God’s love. Mentors helped her understand her strengths, and together they discovered she had a bold, take-charge personality — a natural leader, full of potential.
Growing in Hope and Faith
Thanks to generous partners, Sofiya also received new clothes and school supplies. But even more importantly, she received hope. For the first time in a long time, she felt seen and supported. The center even arranged surgery for her mother — giving the family a chance at greater independence in the future.
Today, Sofiya is no longer the frightened, isolated girl she once was. She is growing in confidence, opening her heart to God, and taking steps toward a brighter future. She never misses a church service and is eager to learn more about the Bible and Jesus Christ.
Sofiya’s story is a powerful reminder of what love, prayer, and practical support can do. Through the faithful work of the center and the generosity of partners like you, her life has been transformed.
Because of your support, children like Sofiya are finding safety, dignity, and hope — even in the most difficult circumstances.
Together, we can continue to change lives across Central Asia and beyond.
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