I felt the Lord tugging on my heart to open a shelter for these wounded girls, and decided to take a step of faith. In 1998, with only $60 to our names, my mother and I started Lama Sevana, meaning "a haven for children," in a rented house.

Four girls in dire circumstances were immediately housed. But the numbers rapidly grew as the need for a safe place to live is great.

Most of the children arrive at the center without shoes and proper clothing and with wounds on their bodies. Some do not know their biological father, as their mothers go from partner to partner.

The Lord provided one day at a time. Often, we began the month not knowing how we could feed the children or pay the salaries of the staff, but God provided for our needs each and every time.

Through help from Christian Aid, we have been able to move forward with our vision and expand our services. In 2004, we opened a shelter for boys in another rented facility.

Christian volunteers, who lovingly give of their time and skills, have immensely helped us to reach more women and children for Christ. A clinic next door offers free medical treatment.

All of our children are taught about the love of God, and the changes in their lives have been extraordinary. When funds are available, children who meet a certain standard are enrolled in local schools.