Extending Love to a Foster Family: Supporting a Child Who Lost Her Mother
Volunteer: David
At the Empowered Servants Global Initiative (ESGI), every outreach is an opportunity to demonstrate God’s love to people facing life’s most difficult circumstances. While some needs are financial, others are deeply emotional, reminding us that compassion often means standing alongside those carrying heavy burdens.
This week’s outreach from Borno highlights the touching story of a young child who lost her mother at birth and the remarkable woman who chose to care for her despite the challenges.
A Child’s Story Marked by Loss
During one of the community outreaches, the volunteer met a young girl whose life began with heartbreaking circumstances.
She lost her biological mother during childbirth, leaving her without the care and nurturing every newborn naturally needs.
The tragedy placed enormous responsibility on her father, who has since done his best to remain involved in her life despite facing significant personal and financial challenges.
A Father Facing Financial Limitations
The child’s father is a retired soldier whose limited income has made it difficult to provide all the care and support his daughter requires.
Although he remains committed to his daughter, his circumstances prevent him from being able to care for her on a full-time basis.
According to the family, he currently lives in Molai and travels periodically to visit his daughter whenever he is able.
His situation reflects the difficult reality faced by many retirees living on modest means while still carrying family responsibilities.
Compassion Beyond Family Ties
One of the most inspiring aspects of this encounter is the role played by the child’s foster mother.
A Fulani woman in the community chose to take the child into her care, providing the love, protection, and daily support that every growing child deserves.
Her willingness to raise a child who is not biologically hers demonstrates extraordinary compassion and selflessness.
Acts like these remind us that family is often defined not only by blood but also by sacrificial love and commitment.
Sharing Hope Through Prayer
Beyond providing practical assistance, the volunteer spent time ministering to both the child and her foster mother.
They shared words of encouragement from God’s Word and prayed with them, asking God to continue strengthening the family, providing for their needs, and surrounding the child with His love and protection.
Moments of prayer such as these offer more than encouragement—they remind families that they are seen, valued, and remembered by God even in seasons of hardship.
Practical Support for Ongoing Care
Recognizing the financial responsibility involved in raising a young child, ESGI provided ₦10,000 to the foster mother to assist with the child’s immediate care and welfare.
The support is intended to help ease some of the daily expenses associated with providing food, clothing, and other essential needs.
While no financial gift can erase the pain of loss, timely assistance can strengthen those who have chosen to care for vulnerable children with love and compassion.
Celebrating Everyday Heroes
This outreach reminds us that many quiet heroes exist within our communities—people who open their homes and hearts to care for children in difficult circumstances.
These caregivers often receive little recognition, yet they make an immeasurable difference in the lives of vulnerable children.
At ESGI, we are honoured to stand alongside such individuals, encouraging and supporting them as they continue their selfless service.
Conclusion
Every child deserves the opportunity to grow in a safe, loving, and supportive environment.
This week’s outreach from Borno celebrates not only the resilience of a little girl who has endured early loss but also the compassion of a foster mother who chose to embrace her as her own.
Through the generosity of our partners and the dedication of our volunteers, ESGI continues to bring hope, practical support, and the love of Christ to vulnerable families across Nigeria.
Together, we are strengthening caregivers, protecting vulnerable children, and demonstrating that compassion has the power to transform lives.
To God alone be all the glory.