What do you do when the children in your community are overlooked by the official educational system? The answer is clear – you start a school.

While ministering to the families in the barrios of Sosua, Dominican Republic, the AFCI team quickly realized the needs of the children in these impoverished areas were not being met. The school system was either too overwhelmed or, in some cases, even refusing to accept children from high-risk homes. Wanting to minister to the whole family, the AFCI team established a small Christian school. Named Refugio de Esperanza (Refuge of Hope), the school is now changing the lives of 160 students.

Recently, a father came to speak with Pastor Cristian Rivas, AFCI DR National Director, asking if he could enroll his son. The man, a known drug lord, had been turned away from the other schools in the area. Refugio de Esperanza welcomed his son. This simple demonstration of God’s love has opened the door for further discussions about the Gospel.

There are some people in the community who have tried to influence the school to move away from their biblical views, but the leadership and staff remain resolute in their mission to provide a solid education based on Scripture. Ranging from Spanish and English, to science, art, sports, and Bible, the comprehensive curriculum is designed to meet all the physical and spiritual needs of the students.

The school has become so successful that it is recognized by the government as one of the best in the country.

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