November in Malawi
November has been such a full and meaningful month for us. We’ve been on the ground at Mitongwe, right in the middle of all the activity, and it’s been a joy to be part of the everyday rhythm there. From walking through the village and greeting familiar faces, to rolling up our sleeves and working alongside the community, each day has been busy but deeply rewarding. Being present has reminded us why this work matters—not just the projects themselves, but the relationships, the laughter, and the small moments of connection that make Mitongwe feel like home. We’re excited to share with you some of the highlights and stories from this past month, because they truly reflect the heart of what’s happening here.
Community Food Outreach
As November comes to a close, we enter what is known locally as the “hunger season.” This is the time when people’s harvests begin to run out, while new crops are being planted that will not be ready until the end of April. To help bridge this difficult gap, we have launched our Agogo Feeding Program. Through this initiative, we are identifying the most vulnerable—especially the elderly who have no family support—and providing them with 20 kg of maize every two weeks for the next 10 weeks. This program is a way of standing alongside those in greatest need, ensuring they have food and hope during this challenging season.
A Day of Dignity and Joy
In November, we hosted the Days for Girls team from Lilongwe for a vibrant workshop with both boys and girls. Under the mango tree, the girls gathered; in the classroom, the boys waited eagerly. Each group received thoughtful gifts—soap, razors, toothbrushes, and toothpaste for the boys; reusable pads, liners, underwear, cloth, and soap for the girls. The excitement was contagious, with clapping and cheers for every item! One teacher shared heartfelt gratitude, noting how the girls will now be able to stay in school during their periods. It was a beautiful day, filled with dignity, joy, and hope.
Heartbreak and Hope
This month, we were called to a nearby village where a 22‑year‑old mother tragically passed away giving birth to her first child. The newborn girl had not yet eaten, so we brought formula, which the grieving family received with quiet gratitude. Her husband, away working without a phone, has not yet heard the devastating news. We are deeply thankful for all of you who support us—both financially and prayerfully—because it is through your generosity that we can respond in moments like these and stand with families in their sorrow.
Saturday Joy at Young Warriors Club
Saturday mornings are filled with joy as children gather for the Young Warrior Club—lifting their voices in song, exploring Bible stories together, and concluding with a hearty bowl of Gleaners’ bean soup. It’s a time of learning, laughter, and nourishment for both body and soul.
A Mother’s Struggle
In November, Carol, our Preschool Manager, noticed one little girl had been absent for over a week. Concerned, she reached out to Isaiah from Health & Wellness, and together we visited the family. What we found was heartbreaking. A 33‑year‑old mother is courageously caring for newborn twins, just three weeks old, 3‑year‑old twins, and two older children aged 7 and 9—all on her own after her husband left. Their tiny 10x8‑foot home held no food, and in desperation, she had been gathering leaves to feed her children. Her sister has offered her a house, but the roof is broken and unsafe. Yet even in the midst of these overwhelming challenges, this mother is doing everything she can to hold her family together. Thanks to your support, we can step in—providing food, repairing the roof, and welcoming her into Health & Wellness every two weeks for nutrition training and gardening. Together, we are helping her begin to rebuild and giving her children hope for tomorrow.
Moms join Preschool Day
Once a month, the mothers of our preschool children join the class for a special morning. In November, the little ones delighted their moms with a performance of songs and prayers they had been practicing. Afterward, the mothers gathered at the Health & Wellness Center for nutrition education, then visited the gardens to explore the variety of foods they can grow to enjoy all the food groups. The day concluded with a hands‑on cooking class before moms picked up their children and headed home—equipped with new knowledge and encouragement for healthy living.
Volunteers Bring Skill and Enjoyment
This past month, we had the joy of welcoming volunteers—Doug from Canada and Derco & Hermo from Holland—who joined us in building projects. We are deeply thankful for all they accomplished, and even more for the way they mentored our staff while working side by side. What a gift to share this time, strengthening both Mitongwe and our team.
You make it possible
As we look back on November, we are reminded of both the joys and the sorrows we’ve shared with the community. From celebrations of dignity and hope to moments of grief, your support has made it possible for us to be present and respond with compassion. We are profoundly thankful for each of you—for your financial generosity and your faithful prayers. Together, we are bringing light into difficult seasons and standing alongside families when they need it most.
