“Everything Came Full Circle”
In my 12 years on staff with KATW, I’ve helped lead hundreds of food-packing events, traveled around the world building playgrounds, and seen the power of KIDStory transform lives. I’ve heard countless inspiring stories and reports from the field.
For years, I thought I understood the full scope of this ministry’s impact. Even so, when I travel I’m always changed in a way that my heart is never fully prepared for and I know God is going to show me something new to shape my faith. But it wasn’t until traveling to Ecuador with Little Tikes Commercial that I experienced its impact in a way that changed everything for me.
The last time I was there was in 2016. Back then, we were dreaming about a new approach—believing God was launching us into a new thing. We were scouting potential sites to combine FOOD, PLAY, and STORY, transforming communities through what we would eventually call “Hope Zones.”
This time, I got to see that vision come to life. It was humbling and deeply moving.
Our team built two playgrounds in communities where StoryClubs had already taken root and families had been receiving OneMeal. We visited homes, prayed with families, and heard their stories. One visit especially struck me: a small one-room house made of wood and bamboo, where a family with almost nothing still welcomed us with food and drinks. The mother shared her gratitude and showed us how she prepared OneMeal. Seeing it nourish families firsthand… powerful.
We made our way to StoryClub on a hill above the community. As we climbed, we heard over 100 children and mothers singing and worshiping. Hearing them praise God in their own language…beautiful.
The day slowly drew to a close, and the sun began to set behind the new playground. We would officially dedicate it the next day and I knew from experience that we’d watch them run and laugh as they climbed on it for the first time! At home, we often take play for granted. Here, for kids with so little, watching their contagious joy over a playground built just for them… grateful.
In that moment, it hit me: without FOOD, PLAY, and STORY coming together here, many of these children might never have known the love of God. Supporting one part of this ministry is powerful, but seeing all three come together shows the full picture. It’s a transformation you can see and feel.
In that “ah-ha” moment, everything came full circle. Years ago, Hope Zones were just a dream. A vision. Now, I was standing in the middle of it—surrounded by children and families whose lives had been forever changed. That was my PAYDAY moment.
We’re investing in building God’s Kingdom—and I’m honored to be a part of it.
Andrew Martin, Resource Partnership Director, brings a big heart and a calm, friendly spirit to everything he does. His larger-than-life stature doesn’t stop him from gliding and sliding through life as a fun-loving husband and dad who delights in seeing kids thrive! Having served in multiple roles with KATW, Andrew never tires of watching God move—and inviting others to be part of the journey.