Born again to a living hope in Ethiopia.
Angry shouts filled the air of Liya’s* home. Though she couldn’t understand the harsh words, Liya*—still in her mother’s womb—heard them. For years, her mother, Genet,* endured abuse from Liya’s father before finally fleeing to a different city in Ethiopia. On her own, she struggled to survive.
Once Liya was born, Genet found a job waitressing at a pub, but it didn’t pay enough to live on. So, the owner offered her another way—to sell her body. With few options, Genet accepted, and this became the world in which Liya grew. When Genet died when Liya was 7, Liya was left in the care of the pub owner, whose mistreatment eventually pushed her, too, into prostitution.
Through 10 painful years and the birth of two daughters, Liya’s life became an ocean of fear, addiction, and despair. That’s when a friend told her about a Samaritan’s Purse-supported rehabilitation program, where Liya fled for help. Aida* is one of the staff who welcomed her. “Liya believed that she and her mother were cursed to live [in prostitution], and she feared that her daughters would suffer the same fate,” she said. “We are committed to supporting her on the journey toward healing.”
Every year, the 12-month program empowers women to escape prostitution and start life anew. They receive a safe home, nutritious meals, medical care, Biblically based counseling, and job skills training. Best of all, they experience God’s love through regular prayer, worship, Bible teaching, and a five-day spiritual retreat.
“The Gospel inspires women to live with purpose and passion, knowing that their lives have value and meaning in God’s eyes,” said Aida. Liya experienced Jesus’ grace and put her faith in Him. “For the first time in my life, I feel like my babies and I are safe,” she shared. “I believe our lives are in God’s hands.”
Liya is now training to work in hospitality. “The program has given her the strength and hope to create a brighter future,” Aida rejoiced. “With her newfound faith, Liya feels confident that she can face whatever challenges lie ahead, knowing that she is protected and guided by God.”
Your partnership shares the hope of Jesus Christ with women like Liya worldwide. Once born into desperation, she has now been “born again to a living hope” (1 Peter 1:3, ESV).
*Name and photo changed for security.
