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.
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
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
Meet M******, a bright young man from Latvia who stands out for his trustworthiness, clever thinking, and cooperative spirit. M****** is dedicated to his studies and recently excelled during his practical year at university, even overcoming challenges with a difficult teacher to improve his grades. He’s deepening his understanding of God’s characteristics. As M****** pursues his dream of becoming a marine mechanic, he hopes to one day improve the infrastructure in his community. By sponsoring M******, you’ll help him continue his journey with confidence, knowing he is not only learning and growing, but also preparing to make a positive difference in the world.
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: 9
Meet P******** from Latvia, a confident and determined young lady who dreams of becoming a children's psychologist. She enjoys walking her dog, cooking, and playing sports, all while maintaining good grades in school. Her recent triumph over a challenging math grade demonstrates her perseverance and commitment to success, as she prepares for her upcoming exams with enthusiasm. With a heart full of honesty and a curious spirit about life’s journey, she often wonders what the future holds for her. P******** is learning about God's characteristics and the fruits of the Spirit, and she is keen to one day give back to her community by supporting families in need. At home, she plays a significant role in helping her close-knit family by cleaning, doing dishes, and cooking. Will you join us in supporting P********'s journey and in nurturing a bright future for her?
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25852
D**** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: 9
Meet D**** from Latvia, a vibrant and confident young woman who dreams of using her creativity as a photographer or pursuing something in the world of sports. D**** excels in school, consistently making good grades, and her recent success in passing middle school exams reflects her dedication and determination. Living with her parents and four sisters, she contributes to her family's well-being by stepping in whenever needed. Her faith journey is enriched by learning about God’s characteristics, and she wonders about the path He has planned for her. D**** enjoys sports, sewing, and computer games. With your support, you can help nurture D****'s talents and aspirations as she grows.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-25853
N***** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: 1
Meet N*****, a shining light from Latvia who's just started her exciting journey into first grade. Curious and thoughtful, N***** is learning about God's love and creation, which delights her gentle and friendly personality. She is already making great strides in her education, proudly mastering the ability to read and write, while dreaming big about her future as a shop assistant. At home, N***** shows her cooperative spirit by helping her mom and sharing her charm with newfound friends. This precious girl is a beacon of love and determination, eager to one day tell her city just how much she loves it! Join us in supporting her bright future and cheerful heart.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26313
I******* in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: 1
Meet I******* from Latvia, a bright and determined young soul who has learned about the resurrection of Jesus and is excelling academically by leaps and bounds. This clever and honest boy, who began school a year early, dreams of becoming a firefighter and prays earnestly for the health of his community. I******* contributes to his sweet family by helping keep their home clean, alongside his mom, dad, three brothers, and one sister. When he's not busy outsmarting stronger opponents in soccer, he enjoys the playground, playing with toys, and attending Montessori classes. I******* holds a delightful curiosity, wondering if God could make every day his birthday! By sponsoring I*******, you can be part of his inspiring journey towards making a meaningful impact in his community, aligned with his faith and dreams.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26314
S********* in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: 1
Meet S*********, a gentle and polite young boy from Latvia with a heart full of dreams. At school, S********* is putting in effort to improve his reading and writing skills, making strides with the help of a speech therapist. Despite the academic challenges, his cooperative and friendly nature shines brightly. As he learns about the world God created and his place as a beloved child within it, S********* also nurtures a unique kindness—opening doors for others is just one way he wishes to make his community better. In a home shared with his mom and two sisters, S********* often helps with the chores, and looks forward to a future as a police officer. When he’s not playing floorball or enjoying his Montessori classes, he’s part of a Minecraft club, dreaming big with his gentle heart. Would you like to join us in encouraging S********* on this journey?
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26315
S****** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: 2
Meet S******, a capable and confident young boy from Latvia who's full of determination and clever ideas. Making good grades at school, S****** is learning about faith through stories like how Jesus delivered a man from demons. He's proud of how his fine motor skills have improved, and recently embraced the challenge of organizing his home. With a lively family, including two younger brothers, and a few foster siblings, S****** contributes by keeping his room tidy. Dreaming of a future where he can serve his community, perhaps as a builder or even a soldier, he imagines constructing huge playgrounds for everyone to enjoy. S******’ hobbies reflect his adventurous spirit, from playing lasertag to cleverly entertaining himself by "spying" around. He wonders what his future holds, and with your support, S****** can continue to grow in confidence and faith.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26319
R*** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: 2
Meet Rūta, a bright and creative young girl from Latvia who's making strides both in the classroom and her community. Recently, Rūta transitioned to a new school and with the supportive environment that surrounds her, she's tackling her reading journey head-on, reinforcing her self-confidence in the process. Her kind heart shines brightly in her aspiration to care for animals one day while dreaming of helping the homeless with food and drinks. With her amiable and compassionate spirit, she not only contributes to her loving family by keeping things organized and tidy, but she also treasures her moments spent visiting her grandma and climbing trees during summer holidays. Rūta's curious soul is captivated by the stories of Christ, and she wonders aloud, “Is it true that Your friend denied you three times?” Your kindness and sponsorship could be the encouragement Rūta needs to continue flourishing and reaching her dreams.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26320
M********* in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: 3
Meet M*********, a compassionate and gentle soul from Latvia with a heart full of love. Despite the family’s frequent moves in search of affordable housing, M********* remains stable, passionately working on his reading skills and achieving the milestone of managing to tackle 2-3 syllable words. He dreams of becoming a police officer and someday helping his community by walking shelter dogs. At school, he's facing challenges with his grades, but his friendly and flexible nature helps him persevere. M*********’ journey of faith is fueled by his understanding of Jesus’ sacrifice, and his curious mind ponders divine mysteries, like whether God might live on a cloud. Living with his mom, two older sisters, and younger brother, he eagerly helps with household chores and finds joy in playing soccer, engaging in Roblox, and sharing laughs with his cousin. Join us in supporting M********* as he continues to grow and learns to shine brightly in his community.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26321
M**** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: 3
Meet M****, a delightful young girl from Latvia with a heart full of compassion and a mind eager to learn. M**** lives with her mom and two sisters, cherishing the moments they share, from family visits to helping around the house. With an amiable and cooperative nature, she excels in her studies and dreams of one day working in a cafe or as a nanny. M**** sees God's role as her Creator and proudly calls herself His child. Her biggest wish for the community is a world filled with kindness, and she's already making strides by improving her self-care skills and understanding the importance of a healthy diet. M****'s resolve was recently proven when she tackled a four-page test and braved the rain to bring firewood in. Sponsor M**** and join her journey of growth, love, and discovery.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26322
M****** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: 3
Meet M******, a kind-hearted and cooperative young boy from Latvia, whose curiosity knows no bounds. With a head full of dreams, he aspires to become a pilot one day, soaring through the skies with the same grace and optimism that fills his heart now. M****** might be struggling in some school subjects, but his recent triumph in Latvian and a noticeable improvement in math shine brightly. Surrounded by a bustling family of two brothers and four sisters, he pitches in by organizing rooms and washing dishes. With a keen sense of responsibility, one of his big wishes is to keep his community clean by collecting trash from the streets. As he learns about God’s creation, he continues to wonder if God could help those without limbs by giving them new ones. Your sponsorship could help support M****** in pursuing his potential, bringing hope and joy where it's most needed.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26323
N****** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: 4
Meet N******, a bright and gentle soul from Latvia with a loving family that includes her cat, two brothers, and parents. N****** is thriving in her studies, making good grades while nurturing a creative and polite nature. Recently, her family celebrated moving into a spacious three-room apartment, giving her a dedicated space to study and relax. N****** dreams of becoming a designer and envisions organizing concerts for little kids in her community one day. She's learning the beautiful truth that Jesus died and resurrected for her, and her gentle heart wonders how her beloved parrot, Sirsniņa, is doing in heaven. Join us in supporting N****** as she blossoms and shares her creativity with the world.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26324
S******* in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: 4
Meet S*******, a bright and adventurous girl from Latvia who brings honesty and confidence to everything she does. Life hasn’t been easy for S*******—after a challenging year with her family at a crisis center, she now helps look after her younger siblings while living with her guardians. School has been tough, but she’s proud of working hard to improve her grades and not giving up, even when things felt heavy at home. S******* is learning that Jesus is always with her, and dreams of one day becoming a preschool teacher, or maybe even a doctor, to help make her community a kinder place. S******* would be so grateful for someone to stand beside her as she continues on this journey, especially while facing so much uncertainty and longing for hope.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26325
P******** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: 6
P******** is a gentle, polite girl from Latvia who faces each day with a quiet strength. After a difficult year that brought big changes for her family, she’s proud that she worked hard and turned her grades around, even while living with a guardian during the week. P******** enjoys reading, swimming, and caring for her family's cat, and dreams of making her community a better place—starting with brightening up local playgrounds. She is learning about the love of God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and sometimes wonders when Jesus will come back to earth. Your support could help P******** continue to heal, grow, and reach her full potential.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26326
R***** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: Pre K
Meet R*****, a bright and confident 6-year-old boy from Latvia who is already showing his friendly and honest spirit. R***** loves exploring numbers, playing with animals, and watching his favorite shows on TV. Though he is non-verbal, he expresses himself in wonderful ways and is learning that God is his Father. After finishing preschool, he’s excited to begin first grade this September, even as his family continues to search for the best home for them. Your support can help R***** grow, learn, and experience God’s love in new ways each day.
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
Meet L****, a joyful and friendly young girl from Latvia who dreams of one day becoming a teacher. Living with her two brothers and grandparents, L**** enjoys her role in the family by helping with chores like washing windows and sweeping floors. Her warm spirit shines through as she connects with everyone around her, always aiming to help her community by picking up garbage and assisting others in simple yet heartfelt ways. Right now, L**** is excitedly learning about Jesus' family and getting ready to start school, where she hopes to continue growing in knowledge and sociability. Would you consider sponsoring L**** as she journeys toward her God-given potential?
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
A********* is a joyful and friendly five-year-old boy from Latvia who loves learning letters and numbers, and is especially happy about joining a gymnastics group—he simply adores it! Having recently moved to a larger apartment, he now shares a room with his older brother, and feels excited about the changes in his family life. A********* is learning that God is good. He dreams of becoming a bus driver one day and even hopes to organize ten fireworks festivals for his community. With his cooperative spirit and healthy outlook, A********* is ready to discover all that life has to offer, and your support can help light the way for his bright future.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26332
Z*** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: Pre K
Meet Z***, a gentle and lovable soul from Latvia who brightens her family’s days with her amiable spirit. At a young age, Z*** is already learning that God loves her deeply and is embracing the comforting truth that He is not angry with her. She dreams of one day training a dragon, but for now, she’s making strides at home by helping her dad with little tasks like putting nails in the walls—a contribution she cherishes. Her biggest pride is mastering the symbols for numbers 1-4, and she hopes to make her family happy someday by repairing their house. Z***'s friendly nature shines through as she enjoys playing and solving puzzles, often wondering aloud, "God, could I ask You for bread?" Join us in supporting Z*** as she continues to grow, love, and shine.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26333
M***** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: Pre K
Meet M*****, a brave and adventurous young boy from Latvia who captures hearts with his determination and cooperative spirit. Living with his foster family alongside his biological sister and three foster brothers, M***** is learning about Jesus as his Savior with each passing day. While he navigates the challenges of a serious speech delay, he is courageously working on pronouncing all the sounds correctly. M***** loves playing ball and building with Legos, finding joy in simple moments and bringing smiles to those around him. Sponsoring M***** can empower his journey toward a brighter, independent future filled with hope and love.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26334
E***** in Latvia
Gender: Female
Grade: Pre K
Meet E*****, a joyful and gentle soul from Latvia who is already making her mark in the world, one smile at a time. Living with her mom, sister, and brother, E***** embraces her family life by helping out with chores like organizing her toys and watering plants. At preschool, she's seen a tremendous boost in her motivation, eagerly learning about how God watches over their beautiful country. With dreams of becoming a firefighter and a heart set on serving her community responsibly, E***** embodies a spirit of hope and dedication. In her free time, she delights in simple joys like playing with cats and sharing giggles with her family. Through your support, E***** could continue to grow and thrive, securing a bright and independent future.
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26335
G**** in Latvia
Gender: Male
Grade: Pre K
Meet G****, a lively and determined young boy from Latvia who's learning that God is the creator of the world. Despite having changed several preschools due to behavioral challenges, G**** considers his biggest victory to be mastering self-control over his emotions and impulses. Adventurous and confident, G**** finds joy in each day, contributing to his family by tidying his toys and lending a hand in the kitchen. His dreams reach far beyond his years, as he aspires to become a police officer who makes a positive impact by helping clean up his community, starting with picking up trash. Whether he's playing with his brother, listening to music, or simply braving a trip to the dentist, G**** displays a quiet resilience that inspires those around him. Would you consider walking alongside G**** on his journey to a brighter future?
Sponsorship Code: LALFC-26336