“We are, FINALLY, about to begin building your House for Health in Tanzania.”
With those joyful words, Bob Kasworm of CHI Health/Immanuel – Tanzania shared the news First Lutheran has been waiting for. Construction is set to begin on the home we are sponsoring—House #199 in this long-running ministry that brings safe housing and renewed hope to families in need.
The recipient of this home is Okuli Ombeni Nkya, a 42-year-old widow living with her 12-year-old daughter, Glory. Ms. Nkya lives with epilepsy, and as Bob shared, “their current house is barely a house.” Now, thanks to a small plot of land provided by her family, that reality is about to change.
Before building begins, the entire community has come together in support. “We met with the family, clan elders, neighbors, village and church leaders,” Bob explained, “and all signed a document stating that when we build a house on this site for the Nkyas, it will belong to them.” This shared commitment ensures both stability for the family and investment from the community.
Construction will soon move forward using local labor and materials. “Our builder uses all local labor… and 100% Tanzanian materials,” Bob noted—an approach that strengthens the local economy while creating lasting impact.
But this home represents something even greater than walls and a roof.
“This house will be a sign to this family and community that through God someone cares,” Bob wrote. “That good things can happen, and there is hope for the future.”
Construction typically takes about six weeks, though the approaching “Big Rain” season may affect the timeline. When the home is complete, Bob will share photos so we can witness the transformation together.
Until then, we give thanks—for this family, for this partnership, and for the opportunity to be part of something that changes lives.
“Thank you for thinking of the very poor in Tanzania,” Bob shared.
And thank you, First Lutheran, for being part of bringing hope home.
