“You’re Telling My Story!”

For many refugee families, the journey to a new homeland is fraught with challenges and emotional scars that can be difficult to heal. However, a unique program called "Lala's Journey" has emerged as a powerful tool for addressing these needs and creating a bridge between church communities and refugee families.

One mother, upon receiving an invitation for her child to attend Lala's Journey, exclaimed, "This is exactly what my child needs, and I've been looking for it!" This sentiment echoes the feelings of countless other parents who have seen their children flourish through this remarkable program.

The heartwarming story of Timi (name and details protected) serves as a testament to the transformative power of Lala's Journey. After hearing the first chapter of the story in his group, Timi, a young teen, became visibly upset. He exclaimed, "You're telling my story!" The facilitator quickly reassured him that the story was a composite of thousands of children's experiences, just like his. Timi was astounded to learn that he was not alone in his refugee journey.

Timi’s connection to Lala's Journey did not end with this realization; in fact, it marked the beginning of a remarkable journey of personal growth and resilience. Inspired by his own experiences and the support he received, Timi stepped up as a "junior facilitator" and began guiding other participants through the program. His newfound purpose and the knowledge that he could make a difference in the lives of others ignited a spark within him.

Thanks to local community members serving as Lala’s Journey facilitators, Timi and that facilitator have been able to stay in touch. The staff at the state facility where he lives now emphasized the invaluable role this relationship played in his mental health and integration into his new surroundings.

Lala's Journey is not merely a program; it's a lifeline for refugee families, offering solace, support, and a sense of community during their most challenging moments. The feedback received so far has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the profound impact of this initiative on both the children's emotional well-being and the sense of belonging in the wider community.