08/10/2021 Washington D.C. (International Christian Concern) – Before Basam joined Hope House over two years ago, going to school was a dreadful task. Basam struggled in school, bringing home poor grades but never receiving any additional support that he needed. He was also a young Christian boy at a public school in a village that was once dominated by extremist mentalities. The children of these extremists were his neighbors and classmates and potential school bullies or harassers. Basam’s public school teachers did not make school any easier for him, beating him for misbehaving and wrong answers.

Thankfully, Basam is able to attend Hope House now for over two years. His parents rejoice at his new environment saying, “the center is better than the school where he is always beaten by the teachers. But in the center they treat him well.” Transportation is provided to make sure children arrive at the center and get home safely, allowing parents peace of mind and also removing more barriers to entry that may otherwise make it more difficult for children to attend.

10-year-old Basam lives in the village with his parents, older brother, older sister, younger brother. His father is a day laborer working as an upholsterer who oftentimes struggles to secure a sufficient income for the family. Despite their tough circumstances, Basam’s mother says, “thank God He doesn’t forget our needs.” The Christian family prays for their community, their livelihood and prays for a better life.