In 2001, the first children—many not even 11 years old—arrived at Home of Hope, seeking refuge from unfathomable situations; living as child soldiers or with no one to take care of them. Today, these children have grown into independent, well-educated adults, holding jobs in accounting, banking, sales and transport. Proud men and women who serve as inspiring role models for the younger children now living at Home of Hope, they show, firsthand, what’s possible with love, education, and opportunity.
Home of Hope began in 2001, with just five children living in a converted chicken coop. Today, it has grown into a true village with ten houses and around 100 residents. Visitors to Home of Hope will now find an auditorium, large sports field, agricultural land with greenhouses, a computer center, an online study center, a library, a rehabilitation pool, a special school for children with disabilities, a therapy center, and training facilities. The village has evolved into a vibrant community, offering everything required for the children’s growth and well-being.
Home of Hope is all about giving children a loving home, so they can grow up and stand confidently on their own. Since 2001, more than 420 children have found a safe and nurturing home here, receiving care, guidance, and a quality education to help them shape brighter futures.
“You can’t change the whole world, but you can change the world of a child”
I run Home of Hope with my wife, Sharmini. Together we pour our hearts into all that we do here. I see myself as a father to the children and a friend to the people in our community. Sharmini and I are committed to giving every child at Home of Hope a strong foundation. We focus on nurturing their spirit, mind, and body, allowing them to grow in every way possible. Many of the children come to us without any real roots. Together we help them learn how to navigate life with confidence.I spend my days talking with the children, offering advice, listening carefully, and seeking guidance when needed. Often, people share ideas for Home of Hope, and I always ask them: Would you want that for your own child? What would you do for your own child? That’s the approach we take—we treat these children as if they were our own, always wanting the very best for them.
I see myself as the mother of all the children here. My greatest wish is for them to grow up in a home filled with love, trust, and security. At Home of Hope, every child is safe and cherished. I want them to know they are valuable and have the power to shape their future. The house mothers (matrons) help me with the daily care, but when the children have worries, they come to me.
I handle their clothing, attend school meetings, take them to the hospital, encourage their talents, celebrate birthdays, and share in their joys and sorrows. I’m there to hug, laugh, and cry with them. I love staying in touch with them even after they’ve grown and are living on their own, and feel so proud when they visit and share their achievements.
Our older, independent children are the best role models for the younger ones. They often tell the younger kids to take advantage of every opportunity to develop their talents and skills—and they do! For that, we are truly grateful.
Rebecca plays an integral role at Home of Hope. A part of the daily management team, she is also the founder of Home of Hope NL foundation.
Over twenty years ago, after completing my studies, I volunteered at a children’s home in Sri Lanka. At the time the civil war led to huge displacement, creating an urgent need for shelter, specifically for children and child soldiers. This, in turn, led to the idea of establishing a new home. Sharmini and Alfy were the perfect partners for such a project, and with financial support from my parents, Home of Hope was born. In 2001, the first five children found their very own safe haven. Since then, we’ve cared for over 420 children. Home of Hope is now a project which facilitates the whole community. A lot has changed within the past 20 years, except my unwavering belief, that every child deserves to grow up in a safe and loving environment.
Jessica Blok