News & Stories

Amy Van Drunen

From the Field

Teaching where she once learned

Former sponsored child Phanet, 19, now teaches fifth grade in the same rural Cambodian classroom where she once studied. With support from World Vision’s sponsorship program, her family’s farm grew into a thriving business, and Phanet overcame challenges to pursue her education. Today, she is determined to pass on the gift of learning to the next generation, while continuing to dream herself.

From the Field

Eyes that shine again

Fatima arrived at a malnutrition stabilization center carrying her 9-month-old son, Hamed, who was dangerously underweight. For six days, she stayed by his side as he received emergency care. With no water available at the clinic, her other children walked 45 minutes each way to collect what they could from the valley. Hamed slowly regained strength and was transferred to outpatient care, where he now receives therapeutic food and regular checkups. His cheeks are full again, and his weight has climbed back into a healthy range.

From the Field

The fire that will not burn her 

Entisr, a Sudanese refugee and survivor of sexual violence, has been displaced five times in her life, each escape marked by violence and immense loss. Despite her suffering, Entisr has become a leader, organizing support groups for other women who have survived similar violence and launching a savings initiative in a sprawling refugee settlement in Adré, Chad.

From the Field

Water gives way to improved healthcare

For nearly a decade, Chiyumbabeenzu Health Post in Zambia struggled without running water, hindering sanitation and care — especially for expectant mothers. When World Vision installed a mechanized water system at the clinic, water became readily accessible. With water, more mothers are giving birth at the clinic, hygiene has improved, and the small health staff can better serve their community.