Liepaja 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: Female
Grade: JOB
Meet A***, a resilient young girl from Ukraine whose journey has taken her to Latvia amidst challenging times. Known for her capable, creative, and friendly nature, A*** has been bravely navigating life’s hurdles, including working as a babysitter and focusing on her mental health. Despite having heard the Gospel and visiting church, A*** is still exploring her relationship with God. Her greatest recent accomplishment is securing legal ownership of a portion of her family's house in Dnipro with her brother, a testament to her honesty and determination. By sponsoring A***, you'll be supporting her as she works towards stabilizing her life and exploring educational opportunities for a brighter future.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-23504
J**** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: JOB
Meet J****, a courageous and compassionate young woman from Ukraine who has shown incredible resilience amidst life's challenges. Once actively attending church in Dnipro and Latvia, J****'s faith journey blossomed after hearing the Gospel from us and her friend. Though she's not currently attending a church, her relationship with her believer friend continues to nurture her spiritual growth. J****'s stable emotional wellbeing and her recent accomplishments, including achieving job stability in Latvia, are testaments to her honesty and responsibility. By sponsoring J****, you can support her as she navigates life away from home while holding onto her dreams and values.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-23575
B**** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: JOB
Meet B****, a resilient young woman from Latvia whose journey is marked by determination and hope. Despite facing life's challenges, B**** has embraced a stable emotional wellbeing and accomplished significant milestones, including moving into a new apartment and proudly securing a job as a police officer. Though reserved in her spiritual journey, she remains open-hearted, respectful, and has experienced the kindness of Christians around her. B****'s trustworthy and cooperative nature, coupled with her desire for a brighter future, makes her a shining light in her community. Your support can make all the difference in her journey towards a fulfilling and independent life.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-24687
M****** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: 9
Meet M******, a bright and compassionate young boy from Latvia, who dreams of graduating high school and making a meaningful impact in his community. At school, M****** is not only dedicated to his studies but also quick to lend a helping hand to friends, as seen in his greatest accomplishment of aiding them to finish 9th grade. Though he's still on his journey of discovering his faith, M******'s joyful and friendly nature brings a warmth to those around him. Sponsoring M****** would empower him to continue on his educational journey and nurture his budding curiosity about the world, including his understanding of God. Join us in supporting M****** as he strives for a promising future.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25735
T***** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: 9
Meet T*****, a capable and confident young boy from Latvia who recently celebrated the accomplishment of passing into high school. T***** is a clever student with a strong desire to graduate and pursue his dreams. He maintains stable emotional wellbeing and is always open to having thoughtful conversations about God, eager to learn and grow in his faith. By sponsoring T*****, you can play a vital role in his journey towards an independent and fulfilling Christian life.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25736
D**** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: 8
D**** is a shy young boy who lives with his single mother, two sisters, and one brother. One of his sisters has health issues and cannot walk. 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-25738
M****** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: 10
M****** resides with his parents in a leased apartment, while his two brothers 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-25850
R****** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: 10
R****** lives in a rented apartment with his parents and brother. 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-25851
P******** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: 8
P******** lives in a rented apartment with her mother, foster sister, and foster brother. While navigating occasional conflicts with her foster 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-25852
D**** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: 8
D**** lives with her parents and four sisters in a cozy two-room rented apartment. They manage to keep it neat and tidy, though the small size can feel a bit cramped with such 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 a music and 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-25853
I******* in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: 1
Coming soon!
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26314
S********* in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: 1
Coming soon!
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26315
M********* in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: 3
Coming soon!
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26321
N****** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: 4
Coming soon!
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26324
S******* in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: 4
Coming soon!
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26325
P******** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: 6
Coming soon!
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26326
R***** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: Pre K
Coming soon!
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26327
R****** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: Pre K
Coming soon!
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26328
L**** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: Pre K
Coming soon!
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26329
A****** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: Pre K
Coming soon!
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26330
D***** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: Pre K
Coming soon!
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26331
A********* in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: Pre K
Coming soon!
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26332
M***** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: Pre K
Coming soon!
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26334
E***** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: Pre K
Coming soon!
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26335