Family Support Center
The Family Support Center was created as a response to the overwhelming needs of vulnerable families in the Naval port village of Karosta, which means “port of war.” Karosta is an isolated section of Liepāja separated by a canal built as a Naval port for the Russians. When the Russians abandoned the site in 1994 after the collapse of the Soviet Union, it was pillaged by the local population and occupied by families that needed a place to live. It quickly became an area that was plagued by all the challenges of poverty and isolation as the community is separated from more developed parts of society.
Orphan Outreach founded the the Family Support Center in 2018 as a response to the overwhelming struggles faced by children and their families in Karosta. The center addresses the various issues faced by at-risk families including alcoholism, domestic violence, unemployment, unsupervised kids roaming the streets, lack of education and kids who are behind developmentally.
The goal of the center is to strengthen families by equipping parents and children with the tools to develop healthy attachments and relationships with one another in order to protect children from repeating the same cycle. Ministry leaders saw that, while meeting practical needs is important, it is the lack of love, acceptance, sense of direction, and self-worth that children then carry with them into adulthood. That lack results in parents who do not know how to form healthy attachments with their children. The Family Support Center serves as a bridge, helping parents connect with their children, motivating them to improve their own lives, and assisting families to become strong and healthy.
The center focuses on three main areas: early intervention through baby classes for moms and their babies and toddlers up to age 3; individual support for children through Montessori classes and specialized therapies; and lastly case management support for families based on their unique, individual needs. Support for each family looks different and includes counseling, support groups for parents, assistance with navigating social services and the provision of material support such as food supplies, medicine, and school supplies.
Additionally, in 2023 work will begin with teenage boys and young men in the community who are often left on the streets with the temptation to get involved in unhealthy behaviors. There is a significant need to engage in activities that they find interesting and motivate them to productive activity that will be a benefit for them, their families and the community. We are partnering with a local pastor who has a heart to minister to these middle and older teens by building relationships, serving as a mentor for them, doing Bible studies, and teaching them how to stay active and healthy by working out together at a local gym.
A****** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: 8
A****** lives with his mother, father, and siblings. He is a kind young man whose goal is to be a leader and stand out among others. At times, this is hard at school, as he struggles in his classes. Despite these difficulties, A****** is very smart. There is no doubt that with hard work, he can accomplish his goals. While at school, his favorite class is physical education, as he likes to stay active. Because of this, A****** often spends his free time working out at the gym and practicing his boxing skills. He also enjoys eating his favorite meal: pork chops, french fries, sweet treats, and Fanta. A****** dreams of someday finding a job and earning good money to provide for his family. Recently, he has been learning how much God loves him. A****** asks that you would join him in praying for his health and the ability to reach his future goals. Please also pray for his family and education.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25933
A*** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: JOB
A*** is the mother of a beautiful family. Some of her favorite activities include making salads, taking walks with her child, and talking to her siblings. She hopes that in the future, she can have a full and wholesome family of her own. Right now, A*** continues to love her family and help provide for her child. She wants to find a better job and apartment in the future to do so. We have no doubt she can do this, as one of her strengths is persistence in reaching goals. Another one of A***'s strengths is helping others through babysitting, giving advice, listening, and chatting. Something she struggles with is finding the strength to perform daily tasks. Please pray that God would give her strength and purpose in each day. Additionally, please pray for her family, health, and faith, as she is not yet a believer.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25936
A******* in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
A******* is married and has incredible children. Her family is one of her biggest treasures. In her free time, A******* enjoys spending time with family, sunbathing and swimming, and having movie nights at home (with snacks, of course). More than anything, she would love to swim with dolphins and stay healthy, enjoying life to the fullest. A******* also has a dream of studying psychology in the future. She believes that her strength is finding common ground with others and making them laugh and smile. A******* says she can help people by sharing her life experience and personal advice. She is always looking for ways to help others! A******* was baptized church some time ago. One thing she struggles with is remembering her value and letting go of the past. Please be praying that A******* finds her identity in Christ and finds strong community soon. Please also pray for her future, health, and faith.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25937
B**** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: JOB
B**** is a single mother to her beautiful children! Her greatest desire is to be a great mother and provide all that her kids need. They still live together in a small apartment. One of B****'s strengths is styling hair, something that comes in useful as a mom. She is also very skilled at any sport she plays. In fact, playing sports is one of her favorite activities. In addition to this, B**** enjoys spending time with her friends and listening to music. These things bring joy to her day. When asked what she would love, B**** answered "peace." In the future, her plan is to continue to work and spend her free moments at home with her kids. She does not yet have a relationship with the Lord, so please be praying for that. Please also pray for confidence for B****, her family's health, and future.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25938
D**** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: 8
D**** lives with her parents and siblings in a cozy rented apartment. They manage to keep it neat and tidy, though the small size can feel a bit cramped with a large family. Having been connected with our program for many years, D**** naturally became involved. Known for her helpful, engaging, creative, and kind nature, she eagerly participates in program events, bringing joy to our staff. D**** also admits to being lively and outgoing when surrounded by loved ones. During her free time, she enjoys swimming, listening to music, and going to the gym. Looking ahead, she dreams of gaining admission to an arts high school and passing her driver's exam. Although reading poses challenges, she finds joy in her studies and perseveres diligently. D**** remembers a moment of courage when she transitioned schools, initially daunting but ultimately rewarding as she quickly made new friends. She maintains a daily conversation with God and regularly attends Sunday school. Please pray that D****'s relationship with God would continue to thrive and that she would find success in her education and future.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25939
D**** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: 8
D**** is a shy young boy who lives with his mother and siblings. D**** works hard in school and says that he is making average grades. Mathematics and biology are harder for him, but he continues to persist. In the next few years, D**** dreams of finishing middle school and continuing to a technical school to become a professional builder. Currently, his favorite class in school is physical education, as it is interesting for him. Because he loves it so much, D**** spends his free time staying active, most often by playing basketball and soccer. He also enjoys eating his favorite meal when he has the opportunity: rice with Coca-Cola on the side. Though D**** knows what the Bible is, he doesn't have a favorite Bible story or verse. He asks that you would pray for his family and his studies. Please also pray for his health, future, and continued growth in his faith.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25940
E**** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: N/A
E**** is married and a mom to five beautiful children. She is a great mother and truly cares for her childrens' wellbeing. In fact, E**** says her strength is caring for her children, as they are what keep her going. Spending time with them is one of her favorite activities, as well as reading books and cooking new recipes. More than anything, E**** would love to have more time for self-education. One of the ways she dreams of fulfilling this in the future is by studying to receive a drivers license. Fear sometimes creeps in, creating a challenge in her life, but we know the Lord will give her confidence. E**** has many strengths, including being a strong support to those around her. She is also great at giving advice when people need it. She hopes to continue using these gifts to bless others. E**** believes in God and we pray that others will come to know Him through her witness. Please pray for E****, her family, and for her future.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25941
I*** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: N/A
I*** is a resilient mother of two. After leaving the orphanage, she was provided with a government apartment that was suitable for living. Currently, she works at a factory and rents a two-room apartment. Every day is a challenge for I*** as she strives to make ends meet and raise her kids. While some relatives help her occasionally, other relatives either have no interest in a relationship or are not capable of providing quality care for her children. Despite her challenges, I*** hopes for improvement in her ability to trust others. She sees herself as a dedicated mother doing her best to keep her family together and safe, as well as a faithful friend. Her moments of bravery shine through when she stands up for her children and recognizes her self-worth. In the short term, I*** aims to continue her journey of self-improvement. Given the opportunity, she enjoys taking walks, engaging in conversations, and listening to music. While she currently does not have a relationship with the Lord, she is open to Christianity. Please join us in praying for I*** and her kids to experience Jesus' love and realize they have a Heavenly Father who loves them unconditionally. Pray for their safety, that the kids will excel, and that their household would be a place of peace and blessing.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25942
K****** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: N/A
K****** lives with her husband and children in a one-room apartment. Together, they are able to cover their basic needs but still need additional support. When K****** is not working, she can be found shopping, listening to music, and watching romantic movies. She also enjoys spending time with her family. Though she loves her child, she finds parenting to be very difficult and has sought advice from others. One of K******'s greatest strengths is being a good friend and conversation-maker. She says this is because she is direct and truthful, leading to openness in her relationships. She believes she can help others to foster friendships like this. K****** has big dreams for her future. Some of these dreams consist of going to Africa to see wildlife, owning a home, and joining a local aerobics class. K****** is a believer in Jesus. Please join us in praying that her faith would continue to grow, as well as for her family, health, and future.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25943
K******* in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: N/A
K******* is a devoted wife and mother, raising her children in a rented three-bedroom apartment. She learned about our program through social media. Her main challenge as a mother lies in trying to understand and manage her emotions in a healthy manner to set a positive example for her children. She takes pride in fulfilling her roles as a wife, mother, and friend, often neglecting her own needs. Despite this, she draws strength from the memory of giving birth and finds joy in connecting with other families and attending educational support groups and seminars. K******* looks to the future with hope, aspiring to lead her family out of debt and help her children thrive academically. While she is open to discussing God, she has not yet accepted Christ as her Savior. Please join us in praying for our team to provide effective support for K*******'s family and for each member to come to know the Lord. Let us surround this precious family with our prayers.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25944
L*** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: N/A
L*** is married and has many children. She treasures her family and enjoys any chance to spend time with them. One of her biggest desires is to have rest time with her husband, preferably at a nice hotel. The most important thing about L*** is her relationship with the Father. When asked about it, she replied, "God is with me; I wish to soar with Him, high over all the hardships. He is guiding every step of my life. He is a mighty and loving Father. Through my children, He often shows me my own attitude toward him." We are encouraged by L***'s faith. In her free time, she enjoys listening to peaceful music, baking snacks, and sitting by the sea to listen to the waves. She truly soaks up every moment she is in. In fact, when asked about her plan for the future, L*** says she has no plans. She aims to live everyday respecting and loving others, as tomorrow is not promised. L*** spends her time pouring into others. She believes she can specifically help people by giving them advice, prayers, cakes, flowers, and watching their kids. Those who know L*** says her strengths are her openness and directness, but she says it all comes from God. One thing that is difficult in her life is giving God her weaknesses and truly taking care of her health. Please pray that she is able to overcome these challenges. Please also pray for her family, future, and continued reliance on the Lord.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25945
E***** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: N/A
E***** is married and has several children. She has a passion for her children's educational growth. She loves to spend time with her family and hopes that someday, they can move to the country, giving them more space together. Aside from family time, E***** enjoys sewing and doing photography. She believes that one of the ways she can help others is by teaching them to sew or do crafts. She also thinks that she can help people by giving advice when they work with Social Services and Child Protective Services. No matter what E***** does, she has a high sense of responsibility toward her work. The one thing that challenges her while working are the migraines she regularly gets. Please be praying for her health. E***** believes in Jesus, but finds it difficult to attend church services, as she has many children to bring along. Though this is the case, she is longing for a church to call home. Please pray that she would find one soon. Please also pray for her family, future, and faith.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25946
M****** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: 9
M****** lives alone with his mother. Those who know him best say that he is quiet, but very determined. He makes high grades in school and dreams of continuing his studies at a university someday. M****** hopes to study logistics and get a stable job to help support his mother. When he is not studying, he can be found playing soccer, basketball, and volleyball. As you can see, M****** likes to stay active! In fact, his favorite subject in school is physical education, as he enjoys many different activities. In addition to playing sports, he likes to eat his favorite meal in his free time: potatoes with pork chops and Fanta. M****** asks that you would pray for his mother to be okay. Please also pray for his future, education, and health.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25947
M****** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: 10
M****** resides with his parents in a leased apartment, while his siblings live independently. Introduced to the program by a friend, M****** has quickly found joy in the workouts and community found there. Beyond the gym, he delights in playing basketball, socializing with friends, and embracing new challenges in his free time. Over the next few years, M****** aims to enhance his fitness, complete his education, secure employment, and obtain his driver's license. His ultimate aspiration post-education is to serve as a mechanical engineer in the Marine Corps. M****** is determined to achieve his goals through unwavering diligence and commitment, a lesson he learned while overcoming struggles in mathematics. He not only has faith in his abilities but also inspires others through their hardships, which he considers his most courageous act. M****** attributes his strength to his belief in God, whom he trusts to guide him through difficulties. Please pray for the deepening of his faith and for success in his educational and future endeavors.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25948
P******** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: 8
P******** lives in a rented apartment with her mother and siblings. While navigating occasional conflicts with her siblings, she remains committed to improving these relationships. She was introduced to the program by a fellow participant and has quickly embraced its opportunities. P******** appreciates the supportive Christian environment provided by staff members, who often describe her as reserved and kind. She identifies singing and soccer as her talents, alongside a keen interest in swimming. In the coming years, she aims to secure admission to a reputable school and actively engage in soccer competitions. Reflecting on her experiences, P******** considers her climbing of a tall tower as a display of bravery. She prioritizes spending time with fellow Christians and offering prayers for those facing challenges. Please be in prayer for her spiritual growth, education, and future endeavors.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25949
R****** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: 10
R****** lives in a rented apartment with his parents and siblings. Introduced to the program by a friend, he quickly found joy in it. Those closest to him describe him as open, cooperative, and reliable, traits he affirms along with his positivity and down-to-earth nature, which often diffuses tension. During his leisure time, he enjoys activities such as gym workouts, soccer, and studying. Over the next few years, R****** aims to progress in his fitness journey and successfully complete his studies, despite occasional challenges in school. He views embracing new challenges as a mark of bravery and also seeks to enhance his relationship with God. Please join R****** in praying for his spiritual growth, education, and future success.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25950
R*** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: N/A
R*** is a mother, living with her children and their father. After maternity leave, R*** plans on searching for a job. More than anything, she hopes to find a job that she is passionate about and would bring her joy. In her free time, R*** enjoys cooking, attending theatre practices, and resting. She has many strengths, but one of them is implementing economic principles to support her family. In fact, she believes that she could help others by giving them practical advice on economic housekeeping. But the most important thing about R*** is that she is a Christian. We pray that her children come to know the Lord, as well. One challenge for R*** is her impulsive temperament. Please pray for her emotions, as well as for her family, future, and continued growth in her faith.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25951
S***** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: N/A
S***** is married and has several amazing children. She loves her family more than anything and hopes that they remain well. In her free time, S***** enjoys cooking, drawing, and listening to interesting podcasts. She also hopes to spend intentional time growing herself in the future. When asked about her relationship with God, S***** said, "I believe with all my heart." In fact, S***** says her biggest strength is her faith, as it is a strong foundation. Another gift she has is giving advice to others. Some of S*****'s challenges are daily tasks and errands, such as paying bills and buying things for her family. Please pray for the Lord to provide for all of their needs. Please also pray for S*****'s health, future, and faith.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25952
T***** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: 9
T***** lives with his family, which includes several siblings. He is a humble young man who enjoys anything active, especially playing basketball and working out at the gym. Because of this, his favorite class at school is physical education. In his free time, T***** loves the opportunity to eat at his favorite restaurant called Hesburger. He also enjoys reading Scripture, especially the story of Moses dividing the Red Sea. T***** works hard in school and is currently making average grades. He needs really high grades to join the Army school, which is his ultimate dream. Please join T***** in praying for this. Please also pray for his health, future, and family.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25953