For anyone who has ever lived in, visited or cared for Africa, the pervasive reach of the HIV/AIDS pandemic is almost too large to comprehend. Faceless statistics and the enormous scope of this scourge make it all too easy to lose sight of individual communities, families and children that are marred by this plague. Though it is encouraging and important to see many organizations and celebrities advocating for multi-national assistance, debt relief, and better government, it’s amazing to report that a real difference can immediately be made when concerned and motivated individuals team up with national believers in taking tangible steps to help break the cycle of death, pain and hopelessness.
The Passion Center for Children grew out of a deep concern for the vulnerable children of Malawi and their communities. Known as the “warm heart of Africa,” this beautiful country is staggering—under the growing weight of HIV/AIDS, poverty and disease—which is stealing the futures of the most vulnerable…orphans, widows and entire communities.
Operating as a dynamic partnership, The Passion Center for Children is committed to making a real difference in these communities. This is a partnership between dedicated Malawian believers and individuals, churches, and concerned groups in the United States.
In Malawi, The Passion Center for Children is a nationally registered organization, led by Pilira Chibwana, the Executive Director and his dedicated Malawian staff. In the United States, the Passion Center for Children is recognized as a tax exempt non-profit organization with a board of directors providing accountability and leadership. This initiative is open to all who are motivated by God and desire to help orphans, widows and their communities in the name of Jesus Christ.
The Passion Center for Children…
- Labors to rescue those who are orphaned, widowed and at risk
- Strives to provide residency for those living in harmful situations
- Works to become a comprehensive resource center in the community
- Desires to see God redeem all who call on the name of Jesus
Six themes guiding the activities of the Passion Center for Children
Love for Life – Creating a warm, loving environment where children can experience the healing power of God’s grace and learn about Jesus.
Health for Life – Helping children grow up healthy and strong by providing the most basic needs such as food, clothing, medical care, education, etc.
Skills for Life – Expanding opportunities for orphans and children at risk to receive primary, secondary and university education and providing access to quality vocational training.
Empowerment for Life – Equipping children with the grace, compassion, truth, and wisdom of God so that they will become valuable members in their community and future leaders in their country.
Belonging for Life – Fostering strong, healthy community ties in order to remove the stigmatism associated with AIDS and to ensure the children’s full participation as valuable members of the greater community.
Knowledge for Life – Improving the quality of education by training and empowering teachers and administrators. Training and equipping community volunteers to help meet the spiritual, physical and medical needs within their community.