Celebrating the 1,000 mark
“For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD as the waters cover the sea.” // Habakkuk 2:14
In Chuka, a rural town on the base of Mount Kenya, there are 1,000 people to celebrate. Here, 1,000 entrepreneurs have started their own businesses – stepping out of material poverty through TOLI’s program. That’s 1,000 graduations, 1,000 new dreams, 1,000 changed families, and 1,000 lives transformed.
Watch this video for a glimpse into the TOLI program in Kenya:
Around the world, one in 10 people live in extreme material poverty, living on less than $2.15 a day. But a lack of material resources is only one aspect of poverty. Material poverty deeply affects how people view themselves. Those in the grip of extreme poverty often say: “I feel hopeless.” “I’m embarrassed.” “I feel ashamed.”
Our partner ministries and TOLI Social Workers meet clients in their material poverty, and with Scripture and a microloan, they teach clients they have worth, dignity, and creative capacity. TOLI entrepreneurs who graduate from the TOLI program have said: “I feel empowered.” “I believe in myself.” “I feel strong and visionary.” “I feel at the top.” “I have become hopeful.”
Meet Esther – our 1,000th client in Kenya. Before TOLI, Esther’s only income was from her small seasonal farm. Completely dependent on rainfall, Esther felt stuck and lived day to day. One day a TOLI Social Worker came and talked to her savings group about TOLI. With hope, Esther entered the program. She completed the Business Basics Course, learned how to run a business, and, just last month, took a microloan to start her own retail store. Already her business is growing, and she’s saved enough money to buy a goat for security.
And even though her journey has just begun, the biggest transformation is her heart. Esther’s now hopeful, looking forward to her future, and giving all the glory to God.
So we praise God for Esther, for the 999 clients who came before her, and for the next 1,000 clients to come!
Nicaragua News
The TOLI Board recently had to make a very tough decision: After 5 years of providing the TOLI program through our partner Verbo Ministries in Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua, we have been forced to end our program there. Please click below for the full report, and how to pray.
“I am very grateful to God and the TOLI program for giving me the privilege of belonging to this beautiful TOLI family. The relationship with you transformed my life and that of my family. We’ve never experienced so much love and support. Thank you very much. I think I have an economic and spiritual foundation to continue undertaking and continue supporting my children and family.”
– Brenda, TOLI entrepreneur in Nicaragua
Mark your calendars for TOLI’s Global Day of Fasting and Prayer on October 24th! Your prayers make a difference. Join us for a global Zoom call, communion at the TOLI office, and, most importantly, 24 hours of prayer – praying for clients, TOLI Field Staff, and partner ministries by name. Sign up for a specific hour of prayer below.