A Safe Home for Angel

Hi everyone, my name is Danielle Encinas and my hope is to provide a safe shelter for a beloved child and friend in Kenya.

Five years ago, I laid eyes on Angel Namayiana's beautiful dark, round baby face and fell in love. I was at a conference where they passed out postcards with kids from all over the world on them in hopes that someone would feel compelled to offer their families monthly support. I noticed her birthdate, exactly two months before my own son Max’s. Her mother sat holding Angel in her lap for the photo; she looked tired, and it was almost as if her eyes were speaking directly to my soul: “Please help.”

I sponsored Angel then and we’ve since exchanged letters and photos but I dreamt of the day we could connect more. I even dreamt about the day I could load up my family on an international flight to Kenya and meet her. I knew the likelihood of this happening was slim but God had heard the desires of my heart. Six months ago a woman reached out to me on Instagram with this message:

“Hello Danielle Encinas. This is Judy siyianta from Kenya. I'm not sure if you are angel namayiana's sponsor coz she's my baby and I'd like us to know each other and be talking .if it's okay with you.please confirm if you are the one. thank you”

Over the months, Judy and I messaged, video chatted when we could (airtime is expensive in Kenya) and have shared in each others’ lives through prayer and friendship. This past December, my family and I were able to “meet” our sweet Angel over video chat for the first time. I’m literally brought to tears when I think of that moment and how special it was for all of us.

I’ve learned so much about the issues currently facing Kenyans. Angel’s family comes from the Maasai tribe, which are pastoralists meaning they tend to, and live off the land. But in the past several years there have been major weather concerns, including severe drought, and high heat temperatures. They are constantly in search of grazing pastures for their small herds, and fertile land to grow food, but none can be found except for hours away. Water is so scarce and expensive that they can do only the bare minimum to ensure they don’t run out, and many of their tribe are dying of thirst and hunger. The animals have been dying for years.

The Maasai are a hardworking and resourceful people but there is much out of their control right now. One of the most pressing issues for the Namayiana family is their current living situation. Angel, her three siblings, cousin and mother and father live in dangerous conditions. The home they’ve lived in for decades has become inhabitable and they desperately need a new one. When rains do come, their roof leaks in so many places they can’t keep the water out. When winds sweep through, the gusts knock down doors and roof shingles. angels parents are ministers in the local church. they are a beautiful family who selflessly serve their community.

Here’s how I’m hoping we can help:

* In order to build a safe and reliable home Angel and her family would need approximately $10,000 USD. I know that God can do far more than we think or imagine, but sometimes He requires we take the initiative. He can multiply whatever amount we’re able to raise for them and anything will help! He’s teaching me to have bigger faith and believe that He truly can provide it all. So if you have even a few dollars to contribute, please know it makes a huge difference to this family.

* Please also pray for the provision of the Niyamia family, including: their home; food and water; provisions for their animals and health. Please pray that the Lord would bless them and for success in raising new home funds.

Judy and myself are eternally grateful on behalf of this precious family for your support and prayers. May God bless you and shine His favor on your for your generosity!