Gift of Hope

Nepal - In a desperate bid to escape a life of abuse, 20-year-old Rachel grabbed her 3-year-old son and fled with a friend. Rachel's husband, from an arranged marriage, routinely allowed his friends to abuse her, even recording the encounters as a means to control her. Fearing for her life after overhearing their plans to kill her, she ran.

For three days, Rachel traveled by bus and on foot until she reached the city. Upon arrival, a compassionate police officer noticed her malnourished and terrified state and offered help. She was taken to a hospital and treated for her injuries. When discharged, with nowhere to go, Rachel felt hopeless.

Then she remembered the organization that had distributed water filters in her village, mentioning their dedication to helping women escape abuse. She asked to be taken to the House of Hope.

At the House of Hope, Rachel finally felt a sense of relief and safety. Although she initially battled a deep depression, refusing food and isolating herself, the staff and other residents continued to encourage her and pray over her.

One night, Rachel had a life-changing dream. In it, a man in white, radiating love and care, led her to a field of rice and milk, urging her to eat and reminding her of her immense value. She realized she had encountered Christ, filling her with newfound hope. Rachel began eating again, engaging with others, and determined to find a job.

After skills training, she secured an internship at a prestigious salon in Kathmandu, under the mentorship of a renowned hairdresser. She is now saving to find a new home for her and her son, with the ultimate goal of opening her own salon to employ other House of Hope graduates.