The Village of Hope, an orphanage, has launched its 30th anniversary celebrations with a call for increased public and private support to sustain services for vulnerable children across Ghana.
Speaking at the launch in Amasaman, near Accra, Mr Fred Asare, Group Managing Director, said the orphanage urgently needed financial assistance to meet the needs of its growing population.
“Our major challenge is financial because all the children we take care of; we do so for free. We need more help so we can help even more children,” he said.
Mr Asare highlighted the organisation’s three‑decade impact, noting that thousands of orphaned, abandoned and vulnerable children had been raised into independent adults, with hundreds progressing through tertiary education.
Founded in 1996 by Church of Christ ministers Jerry Reynolds, Emmanuel Alfred Asante and Christian Nsua, the Village of Hope relocated in 1998 to Gomoa Fetteh in the Central Region due to land litigation and has since expanded significantly.
From its beginnings caring for eight children, the institution now operates residential children’s homes, two babies’ homes in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare, basic and senior high schools, a vocational training institute, and a 70‑bed hospital.
Mr Asare said its education arm continued to record strong academic results, with Hope College producing top‑performing students in national examinations.
The vocational institute has trained over 400 street‑connected youth, equipping them with skills and start‑up capital.
“We don’t just train them; we give them tools and capital, so they don’t return to the streets,” he explained.
Healthcare has become a key pillar, with the Hope Christian Hospital offering specialist services, including a neonatal intensive care unit, to Gomoa East and neighbouring districts. Despite achievements,
Mr Asare said the organisation receives no direct government support, relying entirely on donations.
“Each university student we take care of needs a laptop, fees, accommodation and other essentials. Providing food, clothing and healthcare for all the children is a huge responsibility,” he said.
Mr Asare called for proactive action from government and stakeholders to tackle streetism.
“We have talked enough. Let’s act to help these children,” he urged.
Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, President of the National House of Chiefs and Chairman for the occasion, commended the Village of Hope as “a practical demonstration of Christian love and compassion,” urging faith‑based organisations to expand into economic initiatives that create jobs.
He donated GH¢10,000 to the anniversary celebrations and pledged a monthly support of GH¢5,000 for the year.
Mr Samuel Ayin, the longest‑serving Board member, described the anniversary as a time to celebrate achievements and renew commitment.
“Village of Hope is not just a place; it is a promise that no child should be forgotten, no dream denied, and no life wasted,” he said.
Mr Sappah Yahaya, Head of Operations, recounted his journey from a seven‑year‑old orphan to leadership within the organisation.
“Many of us came here without hope, but through discipline and opportunity, we have become useful to society,” he said.
Activities planned for the year‑long celebrations include an alumni reunion and graduation, community medical outreach, a Hope Tour of Ghana, fun‑based activities and thanksgiving.
Source: GNA
