Plumpy Nut

I love this picture.  It was taken a couple days ago in Shanto, Ethiopia.  That precious little friend of mine is enjoying her first taste of Plumpy Nut. 

19 months ago I found myself on my knees diligently praying for these precious children.  The U.S.-based non-profit I was volunteering for announced they were shutting down, which meant the funding for these orphaned and vulnerable children would end.  In the months that followed I faced an extremely difficult situation.  I prayed like never before and watched God open doors I didn't even know existed. 

12 months ago I partnered with Children's HopeChest (a HUGE answer to prayer) to continue helping these precious children in Shanto.  One of many concerns I had was health care.  In Ethiopia, there is approximately one doctor for every 24,000 children.  Therefore, medical care for orphans in rural villages is almost non-existent.  I prayed that God would provide a doctor to come on my March 2013 trip; someone who could assess the children's health and advise my partner in Shanto, FOVC, on future medical care.  God TOTALLY provided and Dr. Rob came along.  I was so thankful for his hard work, diligent planning, and all the follow up he has done since March. 

One thing Dr. Rob suggested was a product called Plumpy Nut, which is a peanut-based paste.  FOVC has multiple partners which include Children's HopeChest, Ethiopian Orphan Relief (EOR), and a new non-profit called Partners With Ethiopia (of which I am a board member).  All three are staying connected and working in partnership to help FOVC.  EOR is funding the Plumpy Nut project and their team just delivered a three-month supply to the children in Shanto.  I am thrilled!

"The provision of the PlumpyNut is an essential part of the program to reduce protein-deficient malnutrition in the children of Shanto and enhance their health. It is produced in Ethiopia from Ethiopian peanuts and therefore is also stimulating the local economy."

- Dr. Rob

It's been amazing to watch everything unfold over the past 18 months.  God brought me through a very difficult and emotionally draining situation which immensely strengthened my faith in God and the power of prayer. 

To learn more about this story check out "My Journey" and "Child Sponsorship" tabs at the top of my blog.