A Journey of Compassion: Strengthening Hope at City of Refuge Ministries

Group photograph with the children of City of Refuge Ministries

Sustained impact is rarely the result of a single intervention. More often, it is built over time through consistency, trust, and a shared commitment to meaningful change. For MOM Foundation, this approach has shaped its ongoing engagement with City of Refuge Ministries (CORM) through its Donate for Impact Programme (DIP) under Project Ghana.

As a non-profit organisation focused on community development and support for underserved populations through sustainable initiatives, MOM Foundation works to strengthen institutions and individuals by providing practical support aligned with long-term development goals.

City of Refuge Ministries (CORM) is a residential facility providing care and rehabilitation for children who have been rescued from exploitation, abuse, and trafficking. The organisation was established by Pastor Judy Shaw of Judy Shaw Ministries (USA) and is led by Johnbull and Stacy Omorefe. Its work focuses on restoration, reintegration, and prevention at both individual and community levels.

Where It Began

In January 2019, MOM Foundation made its first visit to CORM. The visit was primarily exploratory, creating an opportunity to understand the organisation’s work, engage with its leadership, and identify areas where support could be most effective.

Discussions during this visit provided insight into operational needs and laid the foundation for a structured and ongoing partnership.

From Commitment to Action

By March 2019, the Foundation returned to fulfil its initial commitments. The visit marked the first major donation to CORM, including educational materials, furniture, clothing, and musical instruments. Children and staff gathered to receive the items, participating actively in the process. Beyond the distribution itself, the visit allowed for closer observation of the center’s daily operations. The introduction of musical instruments, in particular, created new opportunities for creative engagement and talent exploration among the children.

MOM Foundation and CORM representatives connect to understand each other’s work better and identify opportunities for support

Building Consistency Over Time

Subsequent visits reflected a continued effort to respond to evolving needs while maintaining consistency in engagement. In August 2021, additional educational materials were delivered, supported by external partners. The visit coincided with the presence of Pastor Judy Shaw, founder of CORM, reinforcing the institutional roots of the organisation and strengthening stakeholder alignment.

By November 2023, the partnership had expanded in scope. Donations during this visit included whiteboards, furniture, blankets, uniforms, and clothing. Items were prepared in advance and distributed in coordination with CORM staff to ensure effective use.

Moments throughout the visit reflected the practical impact of these contributions. Children tried on new clothing, adjusting quickly to their new items, while others gathered in groups to engage with what had been provided. As rainfall began during the visit, the immediate use of warm clothing highlighted the relevance of the support delivered.

The visit concluded on a spontaneous and heartwarming note, as children and staff gathered informally in song and celebration.

Donations from MOM Foundation to CORM

A Familiar Return

In April 2024, MOM Foundation returned for a fifth visit. By this time, the engagement had become familiar, with children and staff responding to the team with recognition and ease.

Donations during this visit included sleep bags, clothing, and educational and creative materials. Distribution was carried out across age groups, with additional support provided to younger children where needed.

Observations from the visit reflected a sense of ownership among the children. Some took particular interest in specific items, including school uniforms and clothing associated with donor institutions. Older children engaged confidently during group interactions, while younger children required more hands-on support during distribution.

The visit concluded with a moment of collective reflection, as the children gathered to express appreciation through prayers for the support received and for the individuals and organisations behind it.

Collective Contribution

This engagement has been made possible through the support of institutional and individual partners, including Archbishop Beck College, Rewind the Planet, and Mrs. Ingrid Spiegl, all of Liverpool, United Kingdom. Their contributions have enabled the consistent provision of essential items across multiple phases of the programme.

Looking Ahead

The engagement between MOM Foundation and City of Refuge Ministries reflects a model built on continuity rather than one-time intervention.

Through Project Ghana’s Donate for Impact Programme, the focus remains on responding to real needs while strengthening institutional capacity over time. This approach not only supports immediate welfare but also contributes to a more stable and enabling environment for the children and mothers in CORM’s care.

The work continues.