For years, the Branch Community Church in Palatka, FL, had been praying about taking an international mission trip. They didn’t know exactly when or where God would send them, but they believed He was preparing their hearts for the moment.
This summer, that prayer became reality.
A team of 11 from the church—half of whom had never been on a mission trip before—traveled to Costa Rica on a mission trip with One More Child. While there, they partnered with the two remarkable local ministry partners of One More Child.
A MISSION WITH PURPOSE
As a part of the team’s mission, they cleared land for a playground that will serve a newly built daycare and school—constructed with the help of previous One More Child mission teams. This facility will primarily serve children of single mothers and Nicaraguan refugees, providing a safe place for children to learn and play while their parents work to provide for their families.
However, there was one major obstacle: safe access.
Currently, the only way to reach the property is over a makeshift “bridge” made from a metal grate and scrap wood. The Costa Rican government requires a permanent, structurally sound bridge before the daycare can open.
When the mission team learned about this challenge, they felt compelled to respond.
TAKING THE MISSION STATESIDE
Back in Palatka, the church’s Vacation Bible School team decided to make One More Child the recipient of their VBS offering, designating any funds raised towards the construction of the bridge in Costa Rica. They set a goal to raise $1,000 for this cause.
But then, the generosity of children exceeded their expectations.
By night four of VBS, they met the goal, and by the end of the week, just 40 children raised $1,212.63—surpassing the original target.
These children didn’t just contribute financially; they became part of a story that will impact the safety and future of children thousands of miles away.
MORE THAN A BRIDGE
The generosity and service of the Branch Community Church will accomplish more than just building a bridge. They are building relationships with fellow believers, spanning across borders and languages—and they are building hope for future generations. Currently, plans are being made for the construction of this bridge.
One More Child is deeply grateful to the Branch Community Church, its mission team, and the VBS children whose generosity is making a tangible difference. Their actions met a physical need while demonstrating deep love and unity with their brothers and sisters in Christ in Costa Rica.
This church thanks God for how He worked through this trip to transform hearts and inspire a renewed passion for global ministry. And their service is only the beginning— they are trusting that more will join in the mission of serving and sharing Christ’s love around the world.
You can join the mission today and reach one more child globally with the love of Jesus.