Our purpose is to serve orphaned and vulnerable children in their home countries while raising awareness of their needs and the hope that can change their lives.
More than 10 years ago, Christian Orphan Health International (COHI) was founded to serve orphaned children throughout Eastern Europe, including Ukraine, Romania, and the Republic of Georgia. Our work is rooted in James 1:27, which calls us to care for widows and orphans in their distress. We do our best to live out the word of God in this way.
When COHI was founded by my father, Charlie Sr., I never joined him on a mission trip. It wasn’t until three years ago, as one of his final wishes, that he asked me to go. My wife, Lori, had previously served alongside him, but that trip became my first experience in the mission field.
Before I went, I questioned the value of mission trips. I wondered whether the experience benefited the volunteers more than the children we served. With the cost of an airline ticket, I thought, how many meals could we provide instead? Why send me when we could simply send the money? That first trip completely changed my perspective.
While financial support is essential, there is something powerful about being present. Looking into a child’s eyes, sharing a meal, praying together, playing games, offering encouragement, and reminding them that they are seen and loved creates an impact that money alone cannot provide. We witness transformation physically, emotionally and spiritually.
One of the greatest blessings is returning year after year and hearing from teachers, pastors, and caregivers about the children we have served. Many have grown into thriving adults, started their own families, and are positively influencing others. Watching children go from difficult beginnings to lives filled with hope, purpose, and family is a powerful reminder of what faithful, consistent service can accomplish. This is lasting impact.
Whether you travel on a mission trip or support the work through prayer and financial giving, you become part of these stories. Every person who serves, gives, or prays plays a role in bringing hope to children who need it most.
Thank you for believing in this mission and for helping us make a lasting difference—together.
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