Maranatha Free Methodist Church in Guastatoya, Guatemala, is bringing hope to children and families through its Rescuing Smiles ministry. Each week, children gather to hear God’s Word, play games, participate in activities and share food. “It’s a beautiful space where we feel loved and valued,” says Alexa, one of the participants.

But the program goes beyond snacks and games. The team cares for each child’s heart, mind and body, showing them God’s love through meaningful action. Recently, Rescuing Smiles launched a new initiative called Operation Chick, designed to foster family self-sufficiency and sustainability.

Sixty children each received five chicks and learned how to feed, protect and raise them. The project offers multiple benefits: Families can use the chickens for food, sell them for income or reproduce them to expand the flock. Children have embraced the project with enthusiasm, but the most powerful outcome is the spirit of generosity it inspires. Once their chicks reproduce, participants pledge to gift one chick to another child who didn’t receive one, multiplying the blessing.

Through this experience, children are learning responsibility, work ethic and care for others. They are discovering that they too can be agents of transformation in their community.

Alexa testifies to the impact: “Sometimes I’m quiet, but I make an effort to join the games and activities because I know they help me grow, make friends and feel more confident. Before, I felt very alone and didn’t talk much to the other children. Now I have friends, I play, I learn, and I feel like I have a purpose – something that motivates me every day.”

Rescuing Smiles is planting seeds of hope – one child, one family, and even one chick at a time.