Dear Friends,

Here are stories of lives transformed by the work of the Gospel.

Our partners Anubhav and Christina David run Love and Serve India (LASI) - an NGO registered with the Indian Government. Their mission is to empower communities through compassionate love, dedicated service, and responsible solutions.

LASI’s ongoing efforts have been fortified through generous support given by various sources including Anubhav’s employer, Intel India, and through individuals connected with our organization, Dusty Sandals.

We honor and esteem the dedicated, Christ-modeling work of Anubhav and Christina within their community.

Love and Serve India (LASI) focuses on four ministries: a 12-month program for women from remote villages to facilitate vocational skill development, outreach and care for widows, education sponsorship, and village outreach.

We are excited to share the progress of our 12-month program designed to empower women from remote villages. This initiative equips participants with essential skills that improve their daily lives and create new paths toward economic independence. Every segment is thoughtfully crafted to meet both individual and community needs, fostering resilience and self-sufficiency.

In December of 2024, we conducted a two-day graduation ceremony for 23 girls, celebrating their journey of transformation. The event was held at a beautiful retreat center where they experienced a warm and memorable celebration. With delicious food and thoughtful arrangements, it was a truly special and life-changing moment for them.

Within the 12-month period, these women received sewing training, learning how to create and repair garments, while also gaining an understanding of fabrics and patterns—skills that can lead to small business opportunities. Each woman was gifted their own sewing machine at the ceremony.

The business acumen sessions covered vital topics such as budgeting, marketing, and entrepreneurship, empowering women to confidently start and grow their own businesses.

The life skills training sessions focused on building communication, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities—tools that will support them in overcoming personal and professional challenges.

In addition, these women received training in home sciences with a focus on nutrition, hygiene, cooking, household management, and sustainable farming techniques, helping them to create healthier homes for their families.

In the agriculture module, the women experimented with modern farming techniques and animal care, which will contribute to greater food security and additional income sources.

Personal hygiene education played a key role in promoting health and sanitation, which are critical for the well-being of the entire community.

At the end of this transformative year, the women have gained practical skills along with the confidence to use them to support their families and communities for years to come.

LASI partners with community leaders and pastors to facilitate the selection process of these women. They are currently preparing for a new group of 32 participants for another 12-month program beginning in February of 2025.

At LASI, we are deeply inspired by the words of James 1:27, which reminds us to care for widows and orphans in their time of need. Each week, we have the privilege of visiting 12 widows, offering not only our support but our friendship, love, and prayers.

Every week, our volunteers visit homes to provide assistance and create meaningful, lasting connections. Whether it's through a comforting chat over tea, helping with daily chores, or simply being there to listen, these visits remind our widows that they are never alone. Many of the women have shared how these small acts of kindness bring light and hope into their lives, giving them a sense of community and belonging that they may have otherwise lost.

In addition to the weekly visits, LASI organizes special events and gatherings for the widows, offering them opportunities to come together, share stories, and enjoy one another’s company. These moments of connection foster a strong sense of sisterhood, allowing the women to support each other and create lasting memories in the process.

Through each visit, every conversation, and all the shared laughter, LASI continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of these incredible women. Our goal is to remind them, every single day, that they are cherished and valued members of our community.

Thank you for your ongoing support in helping us uplift and empower these women. Your generosity makes it all possible.

Our organization is supporting 10 deserving students in continuing their education through sponsorship, ensuring they don’t miss out on learning due to financial constraints. This initiative is empowering them with the opportunity to build a brighter future and achieve their dreams. By covering their educational needs, we are enabling them to focus on their studies without worries. Through this support, we aim to break the cycle of poverty and create a lasting impact in their lives.

We are committed to bridging the gap between village communities and vital government schemes, ensuring that underprivileged individuals receive the support they are entitled to. In many rural areas, people remain unaware of the benefits available to them due to limited information, complex processes, and bureaucratic hurdles.

Through personalized guidance, advocacy, and hands-on assistance, we help individuals navigate these challenges and make critical resources accessible. Whether it’s financial aid, healthcare, education, or livelihood support, we work tirelessly to ensure that no one is left behind.

We actively assist with the application process, follow-ups, and ensure that benefits reach the right hands. By empowering communities with knowledge and practical support, we’re helping them improve their quality of life and build a sustainable future.

This initiative not only fosters self-reliance but also builds confidence, allowing individuals to advocate for their rights and break the cycle of poverty. Together, we’re creating long-term change, ensuring that every person has the opportunity to thrive.

Thank you for your continued support in making this mission a reality.

In the video we're sharing below, Parvati Das, a recent graduate of the 12-month program, opens up about her incredible journey of transformation. As an orphan, she has found a new sense of belonging with LASI, where Anubhav and Christina have welcomed her as a staff member. It’s truly inspiring to see how our partners go above and beyond to support those in need. Later in the video, you'll also catch a glimpse of our walk along the Ganges River, another beautiful moment from our recent visit to India.

Thank you for your interest, support and prayers for our partners. We had a wonderful visit with our partners in India and Nepal. The links below provide our most current reports from each partner.