mission trip to kenya orphanage

Short-Term Missions

Looking to invest in relationships with children and caregivers overseas?

We’d love for you to join us on a Lifesong short-term mission trip! God is working all over the world to make orphans and vulnerable kids His sons and daughters. You’re invited to partner with Him in this work, all while creating deep relationships and experiencing a different culture. Our mission is to bring joy & purpose to orphans, and when you come along on a short-term mission trip, you can help!

Our short-term mission trips involve the following:

• A strong Gospel focus
• Community outreach
• Child and caregiver interaction
• Facility enhancement

Current global orphan care ministries with short-term mission trip availability:

• Guatemala | through our ministry partner, Village of Hope

Don’t see the country you are looking for?

Contact us to see if any other ministry partners are able to accommodate a short-term mission trip.

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Are you ready for a summer of service in Africa? Join us in Nairobi, Kenya as we partner with a dynamic ministry of local young people to reach out to their communities. You will develop some new friendships and have plenty of opportunities to share your faith and serve others- all while taking in the unique culture and sights that make it Africa!

When you think about Kenya, do you get visions of elephants, giraffes, and lions wandering over the vast Serengeti Plain, with spear-carrying Maasai warriors in hot pursuit? Well, that may not be exactly your experience on this trip, but you will be developing relationships with the locals while sharing about your faith.

Student 13 - 18

You will be working in and around the slums of Korogocho, where over 30 ethnic groups and 150,000-200,000 people living in a 1 ½ square mile radius call home.

You and your teammates will be involved in orphanage visitation, medical ministry, and some door-to-door ministry. You’ll also work in schools to build friendships and challenge students in relationships, academic excellence, and Christian faith. Many in the West may not see “academic excellence” as a big deal, but in the slums, a good education is essential and a tangible way out of poverty.

Royal Servants takes the safety and health of each participant seriously. We go to great lengths to ensure participants remain healthy and safe throughout the trip. 

Therefore, no participant is allowed to be alone in any city; Royal Servants always travel in groups of three or more, and when possible, with either a male or Summer Staff in each group. The Trip Leaders also continually monitor conditions within the host country before and during the trip. The team will be moved to a stable location if a situation threatens the team's security, whether from political or environmental conditions.

Within the surrounding landscapes of Nairobi lie many adventures with some of the most incredible animals God has created; sightings of ostriches, buffalo, rhinos, hippos, leopards, giraffes, elephants, and lions are all possible on this trip. 

Additionally, we take in the culture through excellent local foods and visiting "Bomas of Kenya," where we see local tribal dances and experience tribal communal living.

experience culture

You’ll see Kenya’s culture from the inside as you get to know and make friends with the people of Korogocho.

While tourists tend to view the culture of Kenya from the comfort of 4-star hotels or out the windows of deluxe air-conditioned buses, Royal Servants believe it’s essential to live and work among the people. You’ll be sleeping, eating, and doing Kingdom work, immersed in the culture of this fantastic country, and learning to value and celebrate its wonderful people.

spiritual growth

You’ll walk away from your Royal Servants Kenya mission trip encouraged to own your faith in new ways.

You’ll witness third-world culture and living conditions firsthand. God will use these experiences to develop in you a deeper understanding of the world's needs and challenge you to reexamine your priorities. It won’t always be easy, and you’ll learn to trust the Lord daily, but that’s where God wants you to be!

who should go

Are you willing to get your hands dirty? Not afraid to live among the people and desire a ministry that encourages your need to rely on Christ each minute of the day? If so, then the Kenya mission trip is right for you.

Working in the slums requires a compassionate heart, a love for the African people, a sense of adventure, and a willingness to embrace the sights and smells that characterize the areas where the team will work.

eating & Sleeping

Eating & sleeping.

On this trip, you’ll have the opportunity to try some unique Kenyan food like Samosas and Ugali and maybe even experience preparing and roasting a goat. But mostly, you’ll make your meals as a team with items you bring to Kenya and supplement them by purchasing fresh bread, fruit, and veggies locally. 

Many groups expect to be housed in Western-style accommodations, but Royal Servants believe it’s important to live and work among the people. You won’t stay in the slums but in a secure compound near where you’ll be doing the bulk of your ministry. Clean beds, showers, and a place to unwind after an intense day of ministry - the compound will be your home away from home!

The debriefing location for this trip is still to be determined. 

After a summer full of new experiences and intentional ministry, we believe that it’s important to take time to rest and reflect. During debriefing, you will look back over your summer experiences and process all that the Lord did in and through you. You’ll spend time reflecting, journaling, praying, and preparing for your return home. It allows your team to bring closure to your experience together and gets you ready to reenter your life back home and put into practice what God taught you during your summer on Royal Servants.

ministry partners

Royal Servants has been partnering with Dice Ministries since 2015. 

Maurice Agunda, Director of Dice, and his staff work with young Kenyan men and women in a program centering on discipleship and utilizing practical skills training called SURGE to “encourage young people to cultivate their relationship with God, identify their unique gifts and area of calling, and develop (their) leadership skills.”Royal Servants and SURGE will blend their students, creating a truly multi-ethnic mission experience for both. There will be lots of ministry, prayer, and laughter as both groups learn from and work alongside each other.

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Mission Trips - Rewarding, Inspiring, Impactful

Awaken your heart while serving the least of these.

Mission trip support is designed to further our mission of taking an orphan care home from barely surviving to thriving. We can assist your team by providing projects that have been approved by the home directors so that everyone’s contribution is used where it is most needed at the time of the trip. Our goal is to give your community the opportunity to make an impact and see firsthand the impact of our programs on the children served.

OUR MISSION

We have been called to serve the Nation the Orphans—to raise their standard of care. We invite you to join us. Our Mission Trips provide the ability for all participants to learn about the home’s plans for sustainability, help with important projects, and connect with the children in many wonderful ways.  

FIND YOUR TRIP

Each year teams visit our partner homes—Refugio de Esperanza in Bolivia, Refuge of Life in Peru, Watu Wa Maana and JEHO Safe Home in Kenya, Mantonyok Children’s Center in Tanzania, and Operation Smile in Trinidad. We can help you plan an impactful trip that furthers the vision of the directors at each home that is important to the home’s sustainability.  

OUR 2023 MISSION TRIP SCHEDULE

March 17-25: Refugio de Esperanza, Bolivia - COMPLETED

July 5-11: Refugio de Esperanza, Bolivia - COMPLETED

CUSTOM TRIPS FOR CHURCHES

We can help you plan a trip that meets the needs of the children, furthers the vision for the specific home and change the lives of your travelers forever, along with intentional team building, daily devotions, etc.

If you have a team you would like to take on a mission trip to one of our partner homes, it’s best to start planning your trip seven to nine months before departure. If you are interested in planning a trip, please start the process by completing our  Mission Trip form . Our mission trip planner will contact you to discuss your trip ideas.

L ooking to take a trip with your church group, as a family, or you’d like to join as an individual?   We’d love to hear from you today.   Contact [email protected] .

Our Trips Take You to Bolivia, Peru, Kenya, Tanzania, or Trinidad

Mission trips.

Our mission trips are planned throughout the year based on the needs of our homes in these countries. They are generally a week in length. Participants will meet the children and hear their stories. And the group will meet the staff and learn more about our programs. If you are interested in more information on the trips planned for 2023, please complete the Mission Trip form.  

Vision Trips

Vision trips are designed for church and organization leaders to better understand the vision of Haven of Hope. They are generally shorter trips yet provide an impactful experience. Travelers learn about the specific needs of the home from the directors and staff. As well, you will witness the impact of our programs on the children served.

Program Trips

Program trips include construction trips, sustainability project trips, and general trips that involve physical activity of some sort.   They are generally a week in duration. Construction trips are designed for those who like to build and put in a good day’s work. Accommodations are comfortable, but daytime activities can be physically challenging.   Construction skills are helpful but not necessary—just a willingness to roll up your sleeves and help where needed. Sustainability and general trips are active trips and may include helping to fix chicken coops or rehabbing a garden or soccer field or sprucing up a dorm.

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Our Kenya Mission Trips are for individual travelers, couples, families, students, researchers, and groups (churches, colleges, and student associations).

Formal academic qualifications are not needed for most of the programs. All you need is a heart, and a passion for something. We work directly with the projects where we send you and where your contribution will make a real and meaningful difference.

Kenya Mission Trips Projects

Our mission trips are varied and include,

• Helping at orphanages, (duties include providing food and education desperately needed by the children. You will also have the opportunity to share love with them, and provide hope in an otherwise difficult life.)
• Teaching English, Math and other subjects
• Medical mission trips
• Help construct a church, school building, and other painting/renovation projects. (These depend on weather, access to tools, and availability of supplies/construction funding.)
• HIV/Aids outreach missions
• Village trips to teach, help at a clinic etc.

Kenya Mission Trips: What can I do during weekends?

It is up to you if you want to go away on Saturdays and Sundays or stay at the accommodation.

There are a number of sites of natural beauty in any particular area. You can visit the national parks and other places of interest. You can also engage in nature walks in the neighboring environments.

Some of the places of interest in Nairobi include, Ostrich farm; Giraffe centre and Nairobi safari walk which are all situated in the outskirts of Nairobi capital city.

We also organize safaris at an extra cost.

Kenya Mission Trips: What if I want to bring something or fund-raise?

The local community might be happy if you bring along things like stationery (such as pens and notebooks), as well as sports equipment (like balls, bats, etc).

Inexpensive craft materials, marker pens and coloring pencils are useful for your time for teaching projects and can be donated to the community afterwards.

Reading and picture books aimed at children and young people could be useful. There is no need to bring new books. It may be possible to get hold of free books from your old school or library if you contact them directly and tell them what you are going to do or you can easily pick up good cheap books from charity shops.

You can also fundraise and make a donation upon arrival.

Kenya Mission Trips: Mission Costs in Kenya

Cost in USD

First 2 weeks or less USD850

Each Extra Week USD200

Maximum Duration 6 Months

Included are:

• Pre-trip guide as well as support and guidance
• Airport Pickup on Arrival
• In-country orientation visiting Giraffe Center & Elephant Orphanage
• Introduction to host family and program
• Placement and supervision
• Two meals & accommodation
• 24/7 Local support

Your flight to and from the country, visa fees,  vaccinations, travel insurance.

You will also need a weekly budget to cover your expenses like bottled water, personal costs, public transport, beverages and entertainment.

Apply Now Send us your dates when you would like to Start and Finish and Specify the project you would like to participate through the booking form on your right

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Kenya Safari Packages

• 1 Day Nairobi City Tour
• 3 Days Masai Mara
• 4 Days Masai Mara & Lake Nakuru
• 6 Days Mt. Kenya Climbing
• 7 Days Mt. Kilimanjaro Climbing
• 13 Days based Kenya Safari
• 1 Week Adventure Tour after Volunteer
• 2 Weeks Adventure Tour after Volunteer

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Short-Term Missions

Do you want to live out your faith in an extraordinary way and serve God abroad? Are you ready to be stretched and get out of your comfort zone knowing God is going to use you to reach others with the gospel? If so, join NHFC for a short-term mission trip and make a real and tangible difference in the lives of orphaned and vulnerable children.

These trips are for a small team of volunteers to come serve at the invitation and request of the orphanage directors that we serve. These are not tourist trips but real work and service. Our role is to help the director and caregivers in whatever ways are most supportive for them and beneficial to the children in their care.

Summer 2023 Teams: Kenya and Ukraine (Haiti is currently on-hold due to unrest and multiple abductions of missionaries traveling in country)

There are orphans all over the world experiencing neglect and poverty, who are deprived of a quality education, healthcare, resources, and more importantly, a healthy family sharing the love of God. NHFC partners with our orphanages in Ukraine, Haiti, and Kenya to bring mission teams to support care of the children and share God’s love. Our goal is to “serve as needed” and support those on the ground doing the work day to day. We want to make a positive impact on the caregivers, bring hope to the children, and leave knowing that all have been nurtured and lives improved because we were there.

During the trip, you will experience the culture, food, and community firsthand. Different trips require different levels of commitment with some being more mentally and physically challenging than others. The different food, a variety of bugs, lack of showers, lack of electricity, or lack of comfortable bedding can be overwhelming. You will be immersed in the lives of the caregivers and children working alongside them in their environment which is far more impoverished than what you have likely experienced in the USA. In addition to bringing needed supplies, we share the love of Jesus through our words and actions and by doing Bible stories, crafts, and games that share the gospel while helping the children develop various skills. We also support the work happening in the orphanage by doing small improvement projects, cleaning the building/grounds, or assisting with other similar needs. The needs addressed on each trip differ, and the amount of time spent with the children vs. working on projects will vary. The goal is to come alongside those providing the care and support doing whatever is most needed. Each trip will vary as needs change.

Ultimately, our trips are about serving God. We are going to places where we have clearly felt Him call us to go and take a team. On our trips, we meet the children and caregivers where they are at and build into their lives both physically and spiritually. You will meet and serve families and children living in poverty with varying degrees of delays, disabilities, and/or medical conditions such as HIV/AIDS. Often, many of the adults we work alongside have never accepted Christ themselves and have grown up with hardship. We are there to serve both the children and their caregivers. Sometimes hygiene, behaviors, and interactions may be less than what you are accustomed to in your own experience. But, we know the lives of the children and adults, as well as those of our team members, are changed forever when we take the time to step out of our world and into theirs and share the love of God. Our goal is not about our experience, but rather coming alongside those we serve, to help fill their needs as determined by the orphanage director. Our trip is meant to support their work with the children not to disrupt their work.

Your trip will challenge you to understand a world outside of yourself and your comfort zone. NHFC will arrange your cross cultural training, travel logistics, accommodations and much more. You will be guided through trip preparation – such as passports, visas, and immunizations (if necessary), and you will need to meet certain deadlines. We will provide travel tips and packing ideas. NHFC will do our part to help you prepare emotionally, spiritually, and physically, but there are always risks, and we encourage you to read up on travel to the region where you are going and what you can do to also help prepare yourself for such a trip. Our experienced team leader will be on the trip with you to provide direction and guidance from day to day. The team leader works with the on-site staff to determine the needs of each day. You will need to be flexible and trust the process. Be ready, willing, and open as God leads the team.

Who Can Apply?

The trips are physically challenging, and there isn’t easy access to good medical assistance or handicap accessibility. In order to go, you must be in good physical health, able to walk a long distance without assistance, and climb stairs carrying a small load. You should not be taking a medication that requires any type of special care such as refrigeration. To apply for Ukraine, you must be over 21 years old. To apply for Kenya, you must be over 18 years old or over 16 years old if traveling with a parent.

Organization Location: Kenya

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MACCOP Kenya

Welcome to the Maasai-Land volunteer Programme, My name is Daniel Pariken and I am the Project founder MACCOP-KENYA, the Organization you will be volunteering with in Kenya. We are very grateful for the time you are going to give volunteering in our Maasai community and we look forward to meeting you. We connect people world-wide […]

Scripture Union of Kenya

Scripture Union is an international movement began as a children’s mission in Britain in 1867. Its original name was the Children’s Special Service Mission. The Scripture Union as such began in 1879 as a system of daily Bible reading to “follow up” those who had become Christians through the children’s missions. The two names were […]

Happy Life Children’s Home

At Happy Life Children’s Home in Nairobi, Kenya, we provide a loving home and a hope for adoption. Volunteers for a day or months are essential to this ministry, and need only a heart and mind that wants to hug, read to, feed, clothe, and play with children waiting for adoption.

Safisha Africa Welfare Foundation

Safisha Africa Welfare Foundation (SAWF) is a nonprofit nongovernmental organization registered in 2010 with mandate to; enable poor children access quality education, provide educational materials, provide educational facilities, offer feeding programs, advocate for the enrollment of a poor child in school as a right to education. Safisha Targets to support every vulnerable and forgotten child realize […]

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The Ultimate Guide to Mission Trips to Africa

Short-term mission trips can be life changing.

But where you go and how you prepare makes all the difference. If you’re looking to travel to Africa, whether as a family or with a group, here’s what you need to know.

How do I choose a mission organization?

With a quick search, it’s easy to find a lot of organizations doing a lot of work in Africa! But how do you know which organizations to partner with in your ministry and how do you choose where to go on your trip?

The first step is to make sure it’s a Biblically-sound organization. While there are many organizations focused on the good of individuals and communities around the world, people’s greatest need is spiritual. While physical needs matter deeply, it’s not enough to just care for people’s physical needs without also addressing their need for a savior in Jesus Christ.

1. Support and encourage local workers

Beyond that, if you plan to go on a short term trip, it’s important to find an organization where you can support and encourage local workers who are in the field long term. Mission trips can often do more harm than good if you simply show up, build relationships, and then return home with nobody to continue the work on the ground.

If you come alongside local workers and strengthen them in their work, they can then continue the work after you leave. Because the greater purpose of your trip is to bless the people you interact with in Africa, you don’t want to leave them without resources or support after you return home. By partnering and supporting a local team, your impact will extend far beyond your trip.

2. Build a long term partnership

It can be a wise decision to form a deeper partnership with the organization you visit on your trip. This might be through a child sponsorship or a church partnership that allows you to build long term relationships, offer support to the people who are in the trenches of the ministry, and show that you’re in it for the long haul with them! This type of relationship also allows you to have a clear direction and knowledge of what your team will be doing on the trip. We’ve loved the relationships our local team members have formed with individuals and teams that come on MOHI mission trips!

Do the research, ask the hard questions, and focus on building a long term relationship with a team committed to making a difference in their community. This will result in a better trip for your team and a bigger impact on the people you meet, all for God’s glory.

How do I prepare for a mission trip to Africa?

Once you decide where to go and which mission organization to partner with, how do you prepare for your trip, beyond booking your flights and getting vaccinations?

1. Start (and don’t stop) with prayer

The most important thing you can do as you prepare is pray . If God doesn’t go with you on your trip, no amount of preparation will be enough. Take dedicated time to fast and pray, both individually and as a team. If you are traveling with a team, create a prayer list for your team members and their support team leading up to and during the trip. Remind your team of the importance of this in the effectiveness of your ministry! 

2. Learn about the culture

Don’t forget to research the culture and the language of the part of Africa your team is visiting. It is your responsibility to learn as much as you can about the people you will interact with on your trip. What do they enjoy? What conversations should you avoid? Remember that your team is entering into their lives and communities. You are a guest and you should do what you can to educate your team on their culture so you can treat the people you meet with the utmost respect.

This deeper understanding of their history and culture will also help you to see them as children of God to love, rather than people to save. You aren’t their salvation—Jesus is. And coming into a trip with the expectation that you will be able to bring them some sort of salvation apart from God is harmful.

What do you do on a mission trip?

The specifics of a mission trip depend on the organization you work with. That’s another reason to ask questions when you begin your relationship with a mission organization so it’s clear to your team what you will be doing on your trip. However, most trips, like MOHI mission trips, fall into a few different categories: 

• Children’s Ministry or Education : These trips can look different but might involve running a Vacation Bible School or reading program, volunteering in an orphanage, or teaching children or adults in other capacities.
• Skills Training : Many organizations incorporate skill training programs into their overall strategy. Join in and teach a skill that helps people build their confidence and empower them to change their lives and families.
• Medical Missions : These trips focus on meeting the physical needs of people in disadvantaged communities, usually with the help and support of medical professionals.

What should I expect on my trip?

Beyond the day-to-day specifics of your trip, what should you expect from a mission trip to Africa? First, expect to be challenged in your faith and to grow in your love for God and other people. While the main purpose of your trip is to serve others, it’s amazing how much it will impact and change your life, too. As you reflect the servanthood of Jesus, you become more like him and grow to know God more.

“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:28  

Mission trips are an amazing opportunity to make a difference for the gospel in the lives of others—and have them make a huge difference in your life as well. By reflecting Christ, stepping outside your comfort zone, and investing in the lives of others, you will learn and grow in new ways.

In fact, you might not want to go home!

A mission trip to Africa or another part of the world can be a great way to live out the Great Commission and Jesus’ command to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”

As you look to impact the world for the gospel and share the love of Jesus, never forget how the command in Matthew 28 ends, “ And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. ” God is faithful to use his servants to impact the world and make his glory known! So be challenged and take part in this amazing mission!

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Orphanage Mission Trips: how to really make a difference

Mission trips to orphanages abroad (Africa, Asia, etc.): why you should avoid them

Millions of Christians wishing to make a difference, travel to countries across Africa, Asia and South America to participate on orphanage mission trips every year. Although done with the best of intentions, there are significant concerns about the effect this has on vulnerable children and how it is contributing to sustaining the global orphanage industry.

There are an estimated 8 million children living in orphanages across the world. We understandably assume that they are living there because they do not have a family to care for them. Although this is true for a small number, around 80% of children growing up in institutions today have at least one living parent.

What is an orphanage?

The word ‘orphanage’ describes a residential care institution where a group of unrelated children live together and receive care from paid staff members in the form of shelter, food, clothing and sometimes education. 

Orphanages no longer exist in countries such as the UK, USA and Australia, but do still exist across Africa, Asia, South America and parts of Eastern Europe.

The term ‘orphanage’ itself is quite misleading, as it implies that all children living there are orphans i.e. both their parents have died. However, we know that this isn’t true and that around 80% of children growing up in these types of facilities have one or more living parents.

Other names used to describe an orphanage are: children’s homes, shelters, safe houses, children’s villages, transitional homes and residential care institutions.

It is now widely recognised that a key driver leading to children being separated from their families and placed into orphanages is poverty, not lack of caregivers as traditionally believed. For some families across the developing world, providing a good standard of care for children is extremely challenging. With few resources available to support them, parents can be led to believe that if they want their child to have the best start in life, they have no other option but to send them away to live in an orphanage.

Although well-run orphanages may be able to give children better access to education or health services, they can never replace the consistent, stable and life-long love and care provided by a family. 

Over eighty years of research has shown us the damage which can be done to a child’s development and well-being by growing up in an institution. They can experience attachment disorders, behavioural issues, low self-esteem and confidence, and are more vulnerable to abuse, neglect, trafficking and exploitation. Read more about why growing up in an orphanage is harmful to children .

Scripture, social science and international guidance on child protection are in agreement that the very best environment in which to raise a child is in a healthy, loving family. When it is not possible or in the best interests of the child to stay with their parents, alternative, family-based models of care should be sought.

There is a growing movement among international and national policymakers, mission agencies, churches and nongovernmental organisations to shift away from an overreliance on residential care centres towards family-based models of care. For churches this requires some deep reflection on the ways we support children overseas through short-term mission trips and consideration on how we could do this better.

How do mission trips to orphanages harm children?

Each year hundreds of individuals and families travel to countries such as Haiti, Honduras and Ghana to take part in mission trips to orphanages. Motivated by wanting to fulfil Biblical responsibilities to the orphan, these trips have been a part of the practice of the global church for decades. However, with new knowledge comes a chance for reflection and change in order to do what is best by children.

1. Mission trips harm a child’s ability to form secure attachments

We know that in order to thrive, children need to be able to form a secure attachment with a primary caregiver. This attachment allows them to develop emotionally, physically and cognitively, to feel safe, to learn to trust and to form healthy relationships with others as they grow. Being without this secure attachment, a child can experience what’s known as attachment disorder, and can form quick and unnatural bonds with people in order to try to fulfil this need. 

The number of children living in an orphanage usually greatly outweighs the number of paid carers. It is very common for children to develop attachment disorders simply because they do not receive the consistent and one-to-one care that they require to develop. This is made worse when you consider the role of volunteers and mission trip teams visiting orphanages in the hope of showing love and care to the children. The children attach quickly, only to have this bond broken when the volunteer or team member leaves in a matter of days or weeks - only for the cycle to start again when the next team or group of volunteers arrive. The repeated pattern of attachment and abandonment can do serious harm to a child’s psychological and emotional wellbeing.

All children the world over deserve to be shown affection and care in order to know that they are loved and are safe, and they deserve this to be provided by a permanent and stable caregiver.

2. Mission trips are helping to incentivise orphanage trafficking

The number of orphanages opening across the world has risen in parallel to the number of individuals, church groups and families wanting to visit or volunteer in orphanages each year. This is despite the number of orphans worldwide having decreased steadily over the past 18 years. 

As awful as it is to comprehend, the good intentions of kind-hearted people are actually helping to create and sustain an industry profiting off the back of the exploitation of children. Money that pours in via sponsorship, donations, volunteer and mission trips to support residential care centres across the developing world means that efforts to reform the care system in countries such as Cambodia, Nepal and Kenya are greatly weakened. 

In some parts of the world, setting up and running an orphanage has become an extremely lucrative business venture. In order to reap the financial support of overseas donors and volunteers, corrupt orphanage owners actively recruit children from their families by promising access to high quality education and healthcare services. This practice has become know as orphanage trafficking and is a form of modern slavery, a very serious crime. Once in the orphanage, children are routinely neglected, abused and exploited for labour and sex - all in the name of profit. 

By visiting or volunteering in orphanages across the world we contribute to the demand for ‘orphans’, ensuring that more children are unnecessarily separated from their families and exploited as commodities for financial gain.

3. Mission trips make children vulnerable to abuse

The vast majority of people who wish to volunteer in an orphanage have nothing but the best interests of children at heart, but unfortunately that is not true of everyone. Orphanages, which are often unregulated and unregistered, are a target for adults who wish to abuse or exploit children. The best way of preventing such abuse from occurring is to restrict the number of people who can gain access to residential care centres to the professionally trained and permanent staff essential to the child’s care. When a child’s safety and wellbeing cannot be absolutely guaranteed, it is better to be overly cautious and stop the practice of mission trips and volunteering programs to orphanages altogether.

4. Mission trips are hindering care reforms which are in the best interest of children

Governments across the world have committed to reforming their countries’ care systems to enable them to transition away from the use of orphanages and towards better family-based care. This includes tackling the underlying reasons why some families feel the need to send their children to live in orphanages, by making sure that support services are available and accessible to everyone.

Mission trips to orphanages are inhibiting these reforms because they continue to ensure resources are directed to an out-dated model of care instead of towards family or community-based methods. Alternatives, such as adoption or foster care, continue to be under resourced and so the cycle of dependency on orphanages continues.

In order to see the best outcomes for children everywhere we need to shift our support away from orphanages and towards better, more effective alternatives. Find out more about how you can plan an ethical mission trip abroad .  

Visiting orphanages that you sponsor or donate to

You may be considering organising or partaking in a mission trip to an orphanage that you or your church sponsors or donates to throughout the year. Regardless of whether you have a pre-existing relationship with an orphanage it is still not a good idea to visit. Please see our page on donations to find out more information about how your money could be used to support children to remain with their families instead of growing up in harmful institutions. 

What if my mission trip is to visit a ‘good’ orphanage?

Not all orphanages are corrupt. Many are doing their best for the children in their care and some even purposefully try to innact ‘family-like’ care by either housing a small number of children at a time or creating smaller clusters of children who have one primary caregiver. 

However, it is important to stress that no orphanage - no matter how well run or how closely they try to mirror a family - is the preferred option for a child. Orphanages are never able to provide children with the same level of stability and long-term support than a family can. 

Orphanages, as a model of care, are fundamentally flawed. That is why the United Kingdom, United States, Australia and many other countries across the world no longer place children in orphanages, but instead operate a family-based care system. In order to best support children in other countries we need to stop supporting orphanages and instead turn our attention to family-based care alternatives.

What is family or community based care?

Deinstitutionalisation, in the context of residential care, refers to the process of reforming child care systems and moving away from orphanages to family and community-based care instead. This means developing appropriate services to replace orphanages, such as kinship care, foster care and adoption, as well as work done to support families to remain together from the off.

Deinstitutionalisation also includes reintegrating children who are currently living in orphanages back into their families and wider communities.

When children aren’t able to stay with their families or it's not in a child's best interest, family-based alternatives should be sought out. These include: 

• Kinship care - where a child grows up with relatives
• Foster care - where a child grows up in a family that is not their own, but ideally from the same community as them 
• Emergency foster care - this can be required if a child needs to leave quickly for reasons of safety, but should only be temporary whilst a longer term care plan is arranged.

In order to see children receive the best start in life possible, we need to see a shift in support away from orphanages across Africa, Asia and South America and towards family and community-based care alternatives. Read how you and your church can be a part of this international effort .

If we stop supporting orphanages, what will happen to real orphans? 

Although 80% of children in orphanages have family that could care for them if given the right support, it is true that some children do not have family to return to. In these situations, alternative family-based care, such as foster care, would be identified. Shelters and other short-term child protection facilities that provide immediate support for highly vulnerable children whilst appropriate alternative care is identified, play an important role in the child protection system. Their role is highly specialised and should only ever be a short-term solution. It is never appropriate for mission teams or volunteers to work in this context. 

Where can I go to find out more?

If you’d like to continue to develop your knowledge on the issue of Christian mission trips to orphanages, or if you are currently supporting an orphanage and would like some advice, we suggest taking a look at some of the resources developed by our faith-based partner organisations.

ACCI Missions , who also run the fantastic Kinnected website.

Christian Alliance for Orphans (CAFO) Catholic Relief Service (CRS) Faith to Action SOE (Standards of Excellence in Short-term Mission)

Home for Good

If you would like to discuss anything you have read here today or are seeking further advice, please contact us and we’d be happy to help.  

• Problems with orphanage volunteering
• Orphanage visits
• Study abroad
• Internships
• Other volunteering with children
• Alternatives to orphanage volunteering
• List of organisations
• Short Term Mission Trips
• Alternatives to orphanage trips
• Universities
• University Pledge
• Educational resources
• Orphanage divestment resource
• The Love You Give

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When disasters strike, the Church is on the front lines of response and relief efforts, working with local authorities and organizing grassroots efforts to meet the pressing needs of their communities.

Follow along with teams as they serve in disaster areas around the world, and also read about the experiences of past teams who have served in those areas through Praying Pelican Missions. Our disaster trip journals are a great way to stay connected with those support teams as they work locally and internationally to offer encouragement and assist the local Church in what might be their greatest time of need!

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Africa Mission Trips

Church-to-church partnership.

For many of us mission-minded people, an Africa mission trip to serve with our brothers and sisters is a bucket list dream, and it’s no wonder why. Africa's many countries boast a wide array of beauty and culture that makes it a compelling location to serve on a mission trip alongside a local church. As you step out of the airport and experience a whole new culture, we dare you to try and not be in awe at the handiwork of God on this continent.

Praying Pelican Missions partners alongside local pastors and ministry leaders who are active and engaged in their local communities for every Africa mission trip. These leaders often need assistance with both reaching their communities for Christ and with completing various projects around their churches and home communities. What stands out most is the deep desire of these pastors for a long-term partnership with another church. On your Africa mission trip, you will focus on building relationships with the local church and community. You will also work to help complete physical projects, participate in children's ministry, and do community outreach, led and directed by the local church and your Praying Pelican Missions staff.

Praying Pelican Missions will guide you through the process of getting your team ready to serve on the ground, as well as take care of the logistics for your short-term mission trip while you are serving in your host location. From team handbooks and fundraising ideas, to organizing meals and arranging transportation, your Africa mission trip planning will be a breeze.

Come serve in Africa, and get to know brothers and sisters in Christ in another location in the world in a personal way as you work side by side in their local community.

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Our customizable mission trips allow each person on your team of adults to find a place to serve, regardless of their interest or skills.

Africa's many countries boast a wide array of beauty, culture and needs. Destinations include Kenya and South Africa.

Serve with Praying Pelican across the Caribbean—locations include Haiti, Jamaica, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, the Bahamas, and Puerto Rico.

Serve with Praying Pelican across the Central America—locations include Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica.

This is your opportunity to serve alongside a local church and experience God in a different culture—from Belize, to Cuba, to South Africa and beyond.

From our hometown of Minneapolis to the island of Puerto Rico, USA mission trips are diverse in service opportunities, cultural experiences, and community needs.

Cross Catholic Outreach

Delivering food, shelter, and hope to the poorest of the poor

Mission Trips

Putting faith into action, a unique opportunity.

Mission trips are a unique opportunity for your Catholic community to share Christ’s love with the poor in developing countries.

When you partner with Cross Catholic Outreach, you’re partnering with a Catholic organization that has worked with priests, nuns and Catholic lay missionaries around the world for over 20 years.

Each mission trip experience allows U.S. Catholics to encounter the poor and serve alongside our ministry partners in their work. This service may include building homes or schools, feeding children, digging irrigation ditches, caring for orphans and vulnerable children, or visiting the elderly.

Our mission trips can be tailored to your group’s specific needs and interests, always grounded in our service to the Lord. We will help you plan, organize, and engage your Catholic community for a blessed and enriching experience.

Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action. 1 John 3:18

Encountering Christ through Mission Trips in Belize and Guatemala

Read how u.s. catholics are encountering christ through cross catholic outreach mission trips..

Idaho Parish is a Model for Catholic Evangelization

Nestled deep in the heart of Idaho, Holy Apostles Catholic Church participates in Cross Catholic’s Box of Joy program, which brings Christ’s love and joy during the Christmas season. In addition to its commitment to the good works, the parish also sponsors a mission trip with parishioners to visit Cross Catholic Outreach missions in Belize.

Donors Share Inspirational Visit to Santa Rosa, Guatemala

When Terry and Cindi Ruder visited the Diocese of Santa Rosa de Lima last year, they saw poverty – as well as incredible signs of hope. This was a “vision” trip provided to major supporters. Even in one of the most destitute areas of Guatemala, the Ruders saw the fruits of their generosity and the restoration of dignity among the poor.

The cost of each mission trip varies by destination,group size, length of stay and type of service project.

All food, lodging, materials for service, travel health insurance and devotional journals.

Airfare, trip insurance, travel visas, immunizations, and your personal essentials like clothing and toiletries.

Trips average seven days, but can be customized up to 12 days to fit each group’s needs.

At Cross Catholic Outreach, your safety is a high priority. We work closely with our ministry partners in each country to ensure your safety at all times. During your trip, you will stay at a secure compound, mission house or hotel. We register all groups with the U.S. Department of State.

Participants must be at least 13, and those who are 13-17 must be accompanied by an adult.

You will need to contact your cell phone carrier for international data packages available in the specific country you plan to visit.

When your group arrives in-country, a Cross Catholic Outreach team member will be there to meet you at the airport. Our team will be with you for your entire experience and see you off at the airport.

Yes. A detailed itinerary will be provided to you prior to your scheduled departure date.

It’s important that visitors respect local cultures and norms, so participants must adhere to a modest dress code. For work times, men and women should wear pants or modest shorts, and T-shirts. For church, men should wear khakis or slacks and a clean shirt; women should wear skirts or dresses (knee length or longer). For leisure time, men should wear swim trunks; women should wear one-piece bathing suits. Bikini-style or tight bottoms or sleeveless shirts are not allowed.

A Cross Catholic Outreach team member will contact you with a packing list before your trip.

Depending on the country you go to, projects range from clean water wells, feeding, construction, and helping at orphanages or nursing homes.

No. interpreters will be provided.

Yes — a valid U.S. Passport is required.

There will be morning and evening devotions, prayer, and worship. Our goal is that your relationship with the Lord grows stronger!

At this time, we do not host trips for individuals to join.

Important Information Regarding COVID-19

Personal safety is Cross Catholic Outreach’s top priority. Whether it’s you, your group, our ministry partners, or those they serve, service to the poor must be done in a safe and controlled manner.

Cross Catholic Outreach has established thorough mission trip protocols to protect against COVID-19. This includes requirements for pre-travel, travel, in-country service and stay, and return travel back to the U.S.

Start Planning Your Group’s Mission Trip

If you’re interested in learning how your Catholic group can put faith into action through a mission trip, complete and submit the form below. Our team will help you plan, organize, and engage your Catholic community for a blessed and enriching experience. Note, at this time, we do not offer mission trips for individuals to join — only trips planned as a group.

Our mission is to mobilize the global Catholic Church to transform the poor and their communities materially and spiritually for the glory of Jesus Christ . Your gift empowers us to serve the poorest of the poor by channeling life-changing aid through an international network of dioceses, parishes and Catholic missionaries. This cost-effective approach helps break the cycle of poverty and advance Catholic evangelization.

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Mission trips to Africa are the perfect opportunities to explore the stunning continent while making a sustainable difference as a volunteer ... read more

Mission trips to Africa are the perfect opportunities to explore the stunning continent while making a sustainable difference as a volunteer. If you do not have plenty of time on hand, mission trips are a perfect opportunity for you. Despite your short-term volunteer program, your dedication will still contribute to the well-being of the local community.

With its rich culture and arts and stunning landscapes, Africa is a highly popular volunteer destination. Whether you want to assist in the medical sector in Tanzania , build schools in Ghana , or rescue animals in South Africa , our different volunteer programs will cater your needs. What are you waiting for? Join one of our mission trips in Africa that are just as diverse as the continent itself!

South Africa Wildlife Reserve Volunteers

Be part of a life-changing experience that allows you to work behind the scenes on a world-class wildlife reserve in South Africa! 🦏 landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="0" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Rhino & Elephant Conservation

Volunteer in Africa and help secure the future of the endangered black rhino and elephant. Experience daily life on a 10,000 acre family-run private conservancy. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="1" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Marine Conservation Research Assistant

Protect Madagascar's marine ecosystem with MRCI's Marine Conservation Research program. Dive into meaningful conservation work! 🤿 landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="2" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Big 5 Monitoring, Conservation, Sustainable Living

Give your contribution towards wildlife conservation! Learn about animal behaviour, reserve management and anti-poaching while living a lifetime experience! 🇿🇦 landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="3" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Wildlife Sanctuary Supporter

Here you'll direct all of your efforts towards the long term rehabilitation of animals. Experience hands-on volunteering with baboons, small animals and much more! landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="4" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Eco Nature and Coastal Conservation

Eco Volunteering in Wildlife & Marine Conservation. Uncover the whole big picture of our Eco-System for a better understanding of Nature & learn how to make a difference! landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="5" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Forest Conservation Research Assistant

MRCI’s Forest Conservation Program involves long-term monitoring of the forest on Nosy Komba Island as well as the diversity and abundance of its endemic wildlife. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="6" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Sea Turtle Conservation Monitor

MRCI’s Sea Turtle Monitoring Program has been established to identify and develop Safe Turtle Breeding Zones in North Western Madagascar landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="7" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Teaching at Primary School

Volunteer with children aged 6-13 years (Grade R - 7) as a teacher's assistant at a primary school in Cape Town. Make your travel to South Africa meaningful! landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="8" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Wildlife Supporter

Volunteer at our Big Five Game reserve, support the local staff in monitoring the animals and conserving the environment. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="9" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Sea Turtle Conservation

Protect endangered sea turtles along the Ghana coastline. Working on nesting sites and beach patrols whilst experiencing beautiful surroundings in your free time. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="10" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Primary School Support In Rural Kwahu Mountains

Provide a supporting role within our schools that extremely lack resources. Run tutoring sessions covering English and core subjects as well as teaching assistance. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="11" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Tanzania Childcare Volunteers

Leave a lasting impression on the lives of some of Tanzania’s most disadvantaged children by assisting with childcare and education in a childcare center. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="12" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Vervet Monkey Rescue & Rehabilitation

Volunteer with rescued Vervet Monkeys at a permitted Monkey Rescue, Rehabilitation and Release Centre in the lush province of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="13" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Whales, Sharks and Penguins Conservation

Experience not only Whale, Dolphin, Shark and Penguin research and monitoring but also community education, environmental issues, ecology and ecotourism landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="14" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Sports Education Coach

Sports and physical education coaching at local primary schools with Children aged 6 - 13 years old. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="15" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Childcare at a Creche or Kindergarten

Enrich young lives in Cape Town by volunteering at a Creche or Kindergarten for infants and children up to 6 years of age! 🇿🇦 landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="16" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Assistant for Medical Work

Join our health projects, gain insight into healthcare challenges in developing nations, and make a meaningful impact! 🩺 landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="17" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Baboon Rehabilitator & Care-Giver

Care for orphans, bond with surrogate baboon mothers, prepare food, clean enclosures, and embrace life in South Africa with hands-on baboon work! landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="18" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

English Teaching & Tutoring in Rural Schools

Help out in schools to assist with the teaching and understanding of the English language. Providing a strong foundation for the children to develop. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="19" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

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Mission Trip to Kenya

December 15, 2021

We would like to share some highlights with everyone from the three wonderful women who attended our November DCH Mission Trip to Kenya. We have two partners in Kenya and one of them is Lances Deaf Orphans (LDO), where we JUST finished the construction of a new dormitory and classrooms.

In fact, the missionaries were there for the completion of the building and the ribbon cutting too and got to experience that excitement with students and staff as they entered the building for the first time. We interviewed the three women about their experience, and here is what they said.

1. What was a high and low from the trip?

The last day had both for me. We were able to be a part of the dedication ceremony for the new building, and the kids were so excited!! It was so joyful to celebrate the new building with the kids and staff! There was cake and soda everywhere by the time we were done!! Unfortunately, it was also our last day there and we had to say goodbye after helping with some of the moving in. I think it made it easier that the kids were happy they were moving in that day, but it was tough for me to say goodbye after all the kindness and welcomeness they had shown us.

2. What did God open your eyes to, while on the trip?

God opened my eyes to the fact that joy can be found in the midst of hardship. It’s one thing to know that and it’s another to live it/see it lived out right in front of you. Although their life is hard, the kids and staff at LDO treated us so special and were so excited about us simply being there. The challenges that they face day after day did not detract from their care and service to us. I thought I was supposed to be there to encourage them, but they definitely encouraged me in leaning on God’s provision and trusting Him in the hard moments.

3. What do you recognize as important about DCH’s involvement at LDO?

Some of the kids kept asking us about their sponsors and how they were doing, assuming we knew them even though we didn’t 🙂 You could see that it made an important impact on the kids to have someone specific who was interested and cared about them. The water well from DCH has opened opportunities for LDO to impact the community around them and build better relationships. The building from DCH is another huge blessing to LDO, and it has already been an incredible encouragement to the kids and the staff of God’s provision in their lives.

Because of the financial stability from DCH,  Lances Deaf Orphans is not just surviving, but thriving.

My high of the trip was how God designed that I was there again when the dorm was dedicated, just as I was there when the new LDO well was turned on a few years ago. Only God could have orchestrated that timing! A low was leaving the students and teachers that I have come to care for so much.

My eyes were opened on this trip to how much the well had helped the community and not just at LDO. The community around the school as well. To see everyone using the water brought tears to my eyes and joy to my heart.

Without DCH, LDO wouldn’t be able to provide the education and basic needs that every deaf orphan child and also the teachers need. Because of the financial stability from DCH,  Lances Deaf Orphans is not just surviving, but thriving.

Deaf Child Hope is the invisible life and breath behind the physical location of LDO.

1. what was a high and a low from the trip.

Observing a new culture and environment, eating delicious food, and finding a wide array of amazing animals on the safari were all incredible aspects of this mission trip, but none of that could compare to the fulfilling time spent at Lance’s Deaf Orphans. I enjoyed forming relationships with everyone on campus over the course of our time there, which led up to the greatest highlight: celebrating the dedication of the new building on our last day with LDO. The celebration was filled with so much excitement and anticipation, and it felt really good to be part of that. The family-like dynamics between the students and staff were especially evident at this event, which was really special to see.

The mission trip left me feeling so full and blessed that I came home without any predominant lows! However, throughout our time in Kenya, we witnessed quite a bit of class distinction. This was very sad to me because it often prevents “higher class” individuals from recognizing the value and potential within the “lower class.” It was discouraging to recognize that the lower class are forced to fight for themselves in so many areas where there could be support and partnership.

As we returned to our lodging across open grasslands for our last night spent in Kenya, God gave us the most incredible magazine quality sunset (almost like He knew that sunsets are my favorite). We rode in relative silence, admiring God’s handiwork and feeling full from the memories and insights over the previous two weeks. I thought about just how much God had blessed me by making this trip possible. Many desires that I have had for years and years, some that seemed entirely insignificant and even self-centered, turned from wishful dreams into reality while I was on this mission trip. Staring into the sunset and feeling a new kind of contentment that night, I felt personally that God loves to make our wildest dreams come true. When we come to Him with open hands and submissive hearts, He always responds with confirmation of His goodness and sufficiency. Whatever I may sacrifice in my attempts to say “yes” to more of Jesus is always repaid above and beyond what I could ever ask or expect. Just because He loves us enough to say “yes” to us, too.

I am certain that Deaf Child Hope does so much for LDO that is never visible from mere observance. However, I noticed almost immediately that LDO is entirely dependent on DCH for financial support. All supplies right down to curtains and beds are only made possible because of DCH providing the funds. Without DCH, Lance’s Deaf Orphans wouldn’t be reaching deaf children in Kenya because it couldn’t even exist. Deaf Child Hope is the invisible life and breath behind the physical location of LDO.

What Does The Bible Have To Say About Poverty?

November 11, 2021

What does the Bible have to say about poverty and helping others? Well, we’ve asked James, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Matthew to share their thoughts with us…oh and Jesus of course!…

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Nairobi NP + Elephant orphanage - Kenya Forum

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Nairobi NP + Elephant orphanage

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Can anyone recommend a TO, that could Pick us up in our hotel in Nairobi, do a Morning gamedrive and then visit the orphanage (we are not so interested in the giraffe center). Maybe a small game drive after and then back to our hotel ?

3 replies to this topic

Here is a thread with his reviews.

https://www.tripadvisor.ca/ShowTopic-g294207-i9695-k12925251-Nairobi_driver_review_Maxwell_Obell-Nairobi.html

I have left you a PM.

Thank you :) we are not ready to book just yet, but i am saving theese contact informations :)

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