Lujan Home for Girls is a refuge in Vanimo, Papua New Guinea, run by the SSVM sisters. They care for approximately 30 girls, ranging in age from 1 to 25 years old, providing them with safety, education, and a sense of family.

I had the privilege of living at Lujan Home for five months, where I spent time getting to know the girls and supporting their daily lives. I also volunteered at one of the few primary schools in Vanimo, teaching English to the children. During my time there, I witnessed firsthand the hardships faced by the community—the lack of basic necessities, limited educational opportunities, and the ongoing struggles with poverty and tribal violence.

The mission of Lujan Home is to protect girls from early, forced marriage and domestic violence, which remain serious concerns in Vanimo. Despite coming from different rival tribes, the girls at Lujan Home live together as family, forming lifelong friendships in a safe and nurturing environment. Unfortunately, education remains out of reach for many girls from poor families, as tuition costs and transportation fees are often unaffordable.

This experience has profoundly changed my perspective on life. The kindness, strength, and resilience of the people I met have left a lasting impact on me. I am especially grateful to the SSVM sisters, who dedicate their lives to raising these girls with love, care, and unwavering support. Despite having so little, they shared everything with me, welcoming me into their world and culture with open hearts.

Although Papua New Guinea is an economically disadvantaged country, its people are incredibly rich in spirit and generosity.

If you are able to donate, no matter how small, your contribution will help make a difference. Even the smallest act of kindness can bring meaningful change.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. ❤️