Joyce Meyer visits Bhandup Feeding Center

 

Hope for a new way of living

In her very first trip to Mumbai on the first day, Joyce Meyer visited the Prem Kiran feeding center in Bhandup, which is one of the largest slums in the city. In what can be termed as Mumbai’s thriving slum colony for illegal practice of sex workers, stands Hand of Hope’s Prem Kiran Feeding Center which helps around 150 children of commercial sex workers (CSW)have a decent meal, education and a fun time every day.

Joyce and Dave Meyer were welcomed with ‘band baaja’ and showering of flowers to a little program arranged at the center. Sanjay Patel, a 11-year old boy was the MC (master of ceremony) for the program and stole their hearts with his English dictum. Studying in an English medium school nearby, he is the son of a CSW who was forcibly brought into this profession from Nepal.

Speaking to the children, Joyce said “You are absolutely beautiful and handsome, each one of you. I hope you are enjoying the food we provide here everyday for you. We love you, but most importantly Jesus loves you. He will always be there for you.”

What started with just 50 children around four years back now has grown to a large number. The best part however is that the center is bringing a transformation in the whole area itself. Many women who are mothers of these children or otherwise are now showing keen interest to move out of that area, and move into a better lifestyle altogether. The number of women practicing this sex trade has also come down since the last few years by hundreds.

The center, in Joyce’s words has changed the thinking of many women and children, who now have hope of a different lifestyle, and a new way of living.