Mission Update from One More Child
Every week, the leadership and staff of One More Child come together for prayer and devotion to celebrate the encouraging progress in our ongoing mission to serve vulnerable children and struggling families, all for the glory of God.
Here is a glimpse into the recent good news, activities, and accomplishments at One More Child:
Anti-Trafficking
In a partnership with the State Attorney’s Office in the Ninth Judicial Circuit, One More Child’s anti-trafficking team recently participated in a critical program for survivors of trafficking and those at risk of exploitation. State Attorney Andrew A. Bain spearheaded this Human Trafficking Education Diversion Program in an effort to empower and educate trafficking survivors, provide resources, and offer follow-up care. This recurring program is available for individuals who have a non-violent misdemeanor and third-degree felony with no aggravating factors and no requirement to pay restitution.
During this free four-hour course, presented by the State Attorney’s Office and participating anti-trafficking partners, One More Child shared information on the Mobile Teams program and how survivors can report their trafficking to law enforcement if they wish. Our team also built relationships with attendees to establish a foundation of trust with our team members, in addition to having knowledge about the resources available to them. In the past, this program resulted in attendees receiving free therapy, advocacy, and mentorship through One More Child.
For individuals who participate in the program and fulfill all conditions of their Early Resolution Diversion, the state will dismiss the charges against the defendant. This allows survivors to make plans for their future without worrying about having a charge on their record that might impede job placement, housing access, and more. As our team continues to participate in this program, we pray God will continue to reach hearts and change lives of trafficking survivors.
Child Hunger
Alongside resource partners, the Azinger Family Compassion Center blesses children and families across many communities with donations and resources. Restored Image, a nonprofit that works to enhance quality of life among underserved communities, shared the benefits and impact of their partnership with One More Child.
Restored Image expressed the significance of the quality and selection of products they receive through the Compassion Center. With grocery items like Gatorade, Sunkist orange soda, and Starbucks coffee, the individuals served by Restored Image have a variety of high-quality products they would not be able to afford on a regular basis.
Restored Image’s Director of Community Engagement John Russo explained the impact, “They look forward to these donations because they enjoy them, but more importantly these products make them feel ‘whole’ again. These are items they used to purchase in their past, but cannot afford now due to their current situation. Enjoying these products again brings a smile to their face and usually a story from their past about how they enjoyed that specific drink or snack while growing up.”
Foster Care
Churches can support foster parents in powerful, loving, and helpful ways through forming a Foster Crew. Multiple people from BLDG 28 Church embarked on this new endeavor after One More Child led a training at the church. Our team shared the heart of this ministry, needs of foster families, and necessary knowledge and training to be a successful Foster Crew.
Following the conclusion of the training, numerous individuals signed up to serve on the Foster Crew. This team serves five foster families— four within their church, and one outside the church— and assists with meals, babysitting, household help, prayer, and encouragement. This Foster Crew training helped form connections, imparted education and training, and cultivated a greater passion for foster care.
Thank you for your continued prayer and consistent support as we strive to provide Christ-centered services to vulnerable children and struggling families.