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Wogane's Story of Hope
Wogane Adissu’s life is a powerful testament to the life-changing impact of Christian Horizons Ethiopia’s (CHE) sponsorship program, supported by Karis Disability Services. At just three years old, Wogane developed a physical disability—a challenge that led to her father's abandonment and left her mother, Abebech, to raise her alone. In their community of Asella Town, Ethiopia, Wogane faced harsh discrimination and was stopped from going to school, making her future appear hopeless.
In 2007, Abebech turned to CHE for help. Recognizing Wogane’s potential and need for school, CHE enrolled her in their child sponsorship program. This opened the door to education—an opportunity Wogane had long been denied. With fierce determination, she excelled academically and, last year, Wogane reached a major milestone: she passed the national grade 12 exam and was accepted into college!
CHE’s support extended beyond education. Counselling and spiritual guidance helped Wogane heal from the emotional scars of exclusion. A monthly stipend to her family also eased the financial burden, allowing her to focus on her studies.
The program didn’t just uplift Wogane—it empowered her mother too. Abebech joined a CHE-supported Self-Help Group, saving monthly and accessing a loan. With it, she purchased ten sheep, creating a stable income for their family.
“I am so thankful to CHE and to God for giving me a second chance at life,” Wogane says. “My mother and I have come so far, and I know this is just the beginning.”
As we Celebrate Every Journey, we reflect on how sponsorship can transform not only individual lives—but entire families!