Seven-year-old Erica grew up in Liberia, a country on the Atlantic coast of Africa, still rebuilding from long-standing civil war and an Ebola outbreak, but also abundant in natural resources and geographic beauty.
Even though an estimated 16-20 percent of the population have disabilities, stigma still exists and resources are limited. Differently-abled children in Liberia such as Erica face additional challenges accessing education or sanitary facilities, and are especially vulnerable to social exclusion, child abuse, accusation of witchcraft and ritual sacrifice.
Last year, while travelling deep in the bush to gather supplies in a local village, a CRY partner found a young, frightened Erica– tied to a tree, beaten and bruised, spat on and taunted– by even her own family. For years, she had endured abuse and negligence by her kin and community.
Sadly, this is not an uncommon story in Liberia, or other parts of the world. In many places, children are mistreated and devalued, shunned by society, but not forgotten by their Heavenly Father because long ago in the city of David, surrounded by livestock, shepherds and three Magi, hope arrived in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger. A saviour came with children like Erica in mind– bringing redemption and freedom. Our Father God humbled Himself to be born in a stable, one day to be tied to a tree, beaten and bruised, spat on and taunted so that hope would get the final word in the life of every child, including Erica’s.
No matter the differences, He sent a message to the world of just how much she is worth- everything.
Two hours from the capital of Monrovia, in the lush backcountry of Liberia, Erica has found a safe space to call her forever home. In this community called Safe Haven, joy abounds and the potential of every child is celebrated. Whenever a new resident is welcomed to live at His Safe Haven, the entire community breaks into gleeful song and dancing. In this place, we are reminded that God cares deeply for every single one of His children– children of every ability, tribe and tongue– and so should we.
Whether restoration takes place in a children’s home in the rural jungles of Liberia, a special needs school in the capital of Afghanistan or when they return home to heaven, Christ came so all His children could have fullness of life. We invite you to share God’s incredible love with Erica and children like her across the globe. By giving to CRY, funds raised will serve vulnerable youth, like Erica, across the globe. Together, we are able to welcome more children into caring communities where they can play, learn, feel a sense of belonging, and ultimately thrive.
Through your generosity, children are experiencing the transforming love of Jesus for the first time, and lives are being changed. Regardless of their background, Christ came for each one of His children, for every single one of them is precious to Him and known by name.
- Text written by US-based CRY's ambassador, Jackie Tait.
This story is just one example of the countless children CRY supports across the Global South. This transformative work can only continue—and grow—through prayer and the generosity of people like you. If you’re able, please consider making a donation today.
