With 5 active Hope Zones and 6 additional prospective communities, more than 500 children are being impacted! Three of these Hope Zones represent a diverse mix of ethnic groups and are strategically located in the eastern part of the country. With local pastors reaching children through KIDStory, churches are being revitalized and congregations are growing.
Essential nutrition to children impacted by malnutrition is being shared as well. Pastor Fuentes, KATW partner and Director of Missions for the Assemblies of God expressed a powerful insight: “The churches will sustain themselves with new generations. By empowering those who serve today, we are effectively saving our nation. We are grateful to be able to uplift these communities.”
KATW recently visited the communities served in Panama where impactful encounters and transformative moments were experienced:
A PASTOR’S JOURNEY
A heartfelt conversation with a local pastor revealed the profound impact being made through STORY and FOOD. She shared that she has been serving her community as a pastor for four years but only began using KIDStory to teach the children four months ago. Even in that short time, the transformation has been remarkable. “Before, I didn’t know how to help the children,” she said. “Now, every week the children bring another child. They love it so much.”
When asked how these changes had affected her, she described it as “an answer to my prayers.” She also shared about the OneMeal program, noting its life-changing effects: “Before, the children were fainting from being hungry. Now, no more fainting.”
A LESSON IN GRACE
A visit to one of the churches near the prison revealed a moment of grace and connection that speaks volumes about the power of community in Hope Zones. Outside the church, a young mother of three approached, her children stopping in front of the door while she hesitated. They seemed to be silently urging her to follow, leaving her with a choice: keep walking or step inside.
As she lingered, a mother from within the church noticed her uncertainty and warmly waved her in. At first, the young mom declined, but the inviting mother didn’t give up. She stepped outside, gently encouraged her, and gestured to the others in the church, as if to say, “You belong here.” Then, she wrapped her in a heartfelt hug. That simple act of kindness changed everything—the young mother entered the room to hear STORY, welcomed not only by open arms but by an open-hearted community that is experiencing transformation and impact. Changed lives can have a ripple effect on others.
ANGER TURNED TO JOY
Meeting Elian, a young boy with a heartwarming smile and a painful past, revealed the profound impact of love and care in transforming lives. Once known as “the angry little boy,” Elian’s early years were shaped by abandonment and severe abuse. But in this StoryClub, he is discovering something entirely new: acceptance, support, and a sense of belonging.
Pastora Claudia, who leads the program, shared how she has “adopted” Elian in her heart, offering him not only FOOD but also the deep love and encouragement he desperately needs. Elian’s joy is unmistakable—he eagerly shared his fruit juice, cupcake, and candy, small but meaningful gestures of his gratitude and trust. As the day ended, Elian’s parting gift was a hug so warm and genuine that it spoke volumes about his journey toward hope and healing. His transformation is a beautiful reminder of how compassion can restore broken spirits.