By: Sophia Wahl
Instead of spending your spring break doing typical activities like relaxing with family and friends, watching movies, or catching up on sleep, make an impact by praying for those who will be serving in Kenya this spring. 12 UNW students, two professors, and 12 doctors and nurses are traveling to Kenya, where they will open a clinic at the Shangilia Orphanage, located north of Kisumu. Blake Gabrielson, a pre-med student, offers a glimpse of what the trip has in store.
Shangilia Orphanage, photo credit to Amy Beth Pederson
While in Kenya, the group will be providing healthcare to underserved communities. They expect to help around 150 people each day, Blake explains, they will be offering services such as treatments for malaria and lice, bloodwork, and dental care. After working in the clinic for several hours, the team will then head into the nearby villages and minister to them, sharing the Gospel.
During their nine busy days in Kenya, the group will also build two homes and two outhouses, expanding upon the work done by the crew who served before them. Blake looks forward to supporting and spending time with the widows, who are often neglected.
“I know God calls us to minister to help widows and orphans, and that’s what we’re trying to do. We want to serve those who are disregarded in the community.” – Blake Gabrielson, biochemistry and biology student, graduating ’25.
When asked how others can support the trip, Blake shared that most of the cost has been raised. They have 11 suitcases full of supplies and several palates have already been shipped to Kenya. They are still accepting monetary donations, which will go toward the medical teams in Kenya to procure valuable medical supplies to help serve their people.
While most expenses are covered, the group does request prayer for safe travels, and that the Holy Spirit will give them the words they need to minister.
Blake says, “Pray that it won’t be something of our own, but something of Christ.”
Finally, please pray that they will have the energy and strength to uplift everyone they encounter and accomplish the work God has placed before them. If you feel compelled to support the trip financially, please visit their website here to contribute to the supply fund. Each donation is greatly appreciated and will change the lives of those in the Kisumu area.
