Philemon Project Preschool GROW Center — April 2023 Update

Beirut, Lebanon

The Philemon Project GROW Center provides Christian early childhood development programs for underserved and at-risk children in Beirut. Rev. Dr. Robert Hamd, the GROW Center’s founder, recently shared this update:

The ongoing economic crisis in Lebanon has affected the whole population. Those living at an acceptable level previously are now finding it extremely difficult to cover the costs of daily living and the essentials of health and education.

This crisis has highlighted the need for affordable daycare for young children, as parents need to work long hours to provide for their families. The GROW Center provides the best early childhood education, a safe place to play and explore, and breakfast, a snack, and a cooked lunch, every day.

A vital part of our commitment to holistic development is working with the children's parents in our Adult Mentoring program, facilitated by our psychologist. Each session focuses on best practices and parenting skills, relevant parent-child developmental values and ideals, and most importantly, a presentation of the gospel. The Adult Mentoring program is also a vehicle for church planting. We have unprecedented access to the families of the children we serve. Through these sessions, we are able to share the gospel with a variety of adults, who are very open to hearing the gospel because of the love and care that we give to their children.

Our staff of 25 local women is carrying out the gospel mission despite the daily challenges of living in Lebanon. The new normal is living with spotty electricity, water shortages, high fuel prices, and essential medicines that are hard to find. Despite all these challenges, our staff show up and give their hearts to love the people we serve.

Our aim this year is to replicate the vision, active learning approach, and holistic care for the children and families in a new area, close to the southern suburbs of Beirut. Kfarshima is an area that has a mixed population of under-resourced Lebanese, migrant workers, and refugees.

Grateful for your prayers and support.

Read more about the Philemon Project Preschool GROW Center HERE.

THE OPPORTUNITY
The Outreach Foundation is seeking gifts to support the Philemon Project GROW Center. All gifts of any size are welcomed. You may make a gift HERE or by sending a check to our office.