Our Story
The catalyst for Living Hope was a child pickpocket and a single meal. In 1997, whilst on her way to take up a post teaching English in Russia, New Zealander Rachael Hughes felt a hand reach for her purse and turned to confront the person. Instead she looked down at the face of a homeless child.
She had witnessed countless scared, hungry children begging on the streets of Vladivostok, so was moved to buy this child a meal. Seeing the way he devoured the food with an expression of shame made such an impression on Rachael that the next day she returned to the streets handing out fruit and sandwiches. Within a month she was feeding thirty children up to 3 times a week.
As knowledge of her work grew, more and more caring individuals came on board. People from local churches volunteered their time, money, food and facilities. And for the first time, many children knew they would receive regular food, clothing and love.
In 1999, the Vladivostok Homeless Children’s Rehabilitation Society, Living Hope, was registered as a charitable organisation. Being officially recognised was the first step in making a real difference. With a Board of Administration, five full-time Russian staff as well as local and overseas volunteers, Living Hope continues to meet an ever-increasing number of children in need of a new beginning.
Our Story