Hope Haven and Dordt University Partner in Sioux Center Residence

By 7017444915 December 23, 2025
For the entire beginning of his life, Luke lived life on the floor. We met him on our fourth distribution day in Kenya. His arrival at the site was quiet, but his story spoke volumes. Luke, 11, lives with cerebral palsy. Before he was brought to a children’s home for the disabled, he had endured years of neglect. He was tied up, unable to move around, and kept inside his home so his disability would remain hidden. When they found him, he was emaciated, in constant pain, and X-rays revealed a broken hip that had gone untreated for years. His caregiver, Don, brought Luke to our distribution site for the first wheelchair he has ever owned. Fitting his chair took more than two hours, but Luke smiled through every moment of it. He seemed to understand that his world was opening up for the first time. During the fitting, one of our team members stayed by Luke’s side, comforting him. She shared, “I spent a lot of time with him, praying and singing and just stroking the side of his face. And I think that’s one of the things that really got me, I don’t think he’s had much human contact. He would just lean into me, wanting me to keep going, and he grabbed at my hands like he didn’t want to let go.” Every wheelchair you help provide becomes a turning point - a chance for a child to sit upright for the first time, attend school, join their peers, or simply experience life beyond the walls where they were once hidden. For Luke, it meant being seen, supported, and cared for in ways he had never known. This Christmas season, you can give the gift of mobility and change a life forever. Your support ensures that the most vulnerable are not forgotten and brings dignity and hope to children who have endured far too much. Luke is not alone — children like him are waiting across the world. “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” — Matthew 25:40 You can change a life today. Every gift brings light into the darkness and gives children like Luke a future filled with possibility. Thank you for giving children like Luke, and so many others, a chance at dignity and hope. If you wish to contribute, please CLICK HERE to donate today. We are deeply grateful for your support and prayers as we continue our mission to serve and uplift those in need.
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Starting July 2019 Dordt University will provide Hope Haven with rental housing for four individuals. The transition is due in part to a partnership forged between Hope Haven and Dordt University.

“We have always appreciated the services that Hope Haven provides kingdom citizens in Northwest Iowa and we are happy to be able to partner with them on this endeavor ” said Howard Wilson chief administrative officer at Dordt University.

This kind of partnership between the two entities traces back to 2014 when Dordt provided temporary housing for Hope Haven residents who were displaced due to flooding.

When a graduate assistant house at Dordt became available this year a year-long lease was offered to Hope Haven for its residents. This residential opportunity fills a void for Hope Haven as there is a momentum in disability services for providers to rent instead of own homes for individuals served.

“Dordt University and Hope Haven both have deep roots in the region with ministries that have an impact around the globe. We’re proud to be working with them in another tangible way and are grateful for their commitment to people with disabilities ” said Hope Haven CEO Matt Buley. “I have no doubt the individuals we serve will feel welcomed and at home at Dordt and we’re excited to partner on their behalf.”