Dear FaithFuel Family,
As we near the end of the year, I want to take this moment to say “thank you.” We’ve encountered profoundly moving stories and experiences that have not only deeply touched our hearts but have also served as a persistent reminder to seek and understand God’s will for us. With that being said, be on the lookout for our wrap-up in December from all of this year’s stories and special announcements for our FaithFuel plans next year!
Meet Merit
Merit, a remarkable 10-year-old, brings a profoundly uplifting presence to the Youth Center each time she walks in. She is a true star whose brilliant smile and positive energy immediately brings hope and brightness to everyone around her.
Born into a family of five and the last of three children, Merit is a jovial, intelligent young girl who dreams of becoming a doctor.
Her father, Mr. James, a laborer (often referred to as a bricklayer in Nigeria), shared what life has been like for the family:
“I am a builder. My kind of job is usually seasonal. We get work during the dry season and have none when the rains start because most people don’t build during the rainy period. My wife, Tina, sells groundnuts (peanuts) to support the family. She also does petty contributions so we can at least pay their fees.”
In addition to her work, Mrs. Tina volunteers for A2S. She recounts why she chose to volunteer:
“I joined the volunteers at A2S because of my children. A2S has done so much for us. I don’t have money to support the Foundation, but I can help by volunteering. After the children eat, I wash plates and assist with cleaning, just a way to thank the Foundation for what they’re doing.”
She first heard about A2S from her eldest son, Michael, who came home excited about a lesson he wanted to attend with his siblings.
“Michael came home and told me about the After School Academy. Ever since they joined, they have been getting supplies. I can’t even remember the last time I went to the market to buy school bags. A2S is making a real difference for us as parents.”
Merit herself joyfully shared what she loves doing at the Academy:
“I like to go to the library because I love to read. And I love to make my parents happy.”
Mrs. Tina also reflected on how much her daughter has grown:
“Merit improved very well. She now reads more than before. She loves to sing and always talks about Talent Delve. Compared to her siblings, she is more attached to reading.”
Merit is deeply fond of her parents, especially her dad. She dreams of making them proud and prays that God provides for her father to do all he wishes for the family.
One of Merit’s most delightful qualities is her love for singing. She’s a proud member of the Music Club, a fantastic platform A2S created where she and other kids can access real instruments, explore their passions and grow their gifts.
Furthermore, she is a responsible family member, pitching in at home by washing dishes and sweeping as her way of contributing.
Mrs. Tina captured the entire journey with one heartfelt reflection:
“A2S has convinced me over time that they are doing a good job. It’s rare to see an organization do so much for the community. I see the impact in the lives of my kids.”
We’re blessed to witness stories that show just how far our impact reaches and how deeply our contributions touch the communities around us. Please know that your prayers have an incredible global reach, affecting people in nations you might never see or meet. I am sincerely grateful to be included in this work.
As you celebrate Thanksgiving, I hope you find a moment to reflect on the year and be grateful for the journey He has called you to walk. May this serve as your inspiration to continually draw yourself, as well as others, closer to Him.
Happy Thanksgiving!
With love,
Omotayo Oluwashola
Communications Coordinator
