One woman’s pain, turned into a place of refuge
The story of Outstretched Hands for the Poor and Needy — and the calling that started it all.
Our mission
To fulfill the scripture of James 1:27
The mission of Outstretched Hands for the Poor and Needy is to fulfill the scripture of James 1:27 — helping widows and orphans, including abused women and the poor, in the country of Kyrgyzstan.
We do this not only by meeting physical needs — shelter, food, clothing, safety — but by sharing the good news of a loving Savior, in word and in care.
How it began
A history written in compassion
- 2008
After coming out of an abusive marriage herself, our founder Iris Pritchard begins meeting with other women who had suffered the same — offering sisterly support in a country where help for victims is scarce.
- 2010
The ministry is registered as a public fund. With her young daughter in tow, Iris rents a home in her native community to give abused women a place of safety.
- 2013
A better home is donated — becoming the first official shelter, the House of Comfort, where women and children receive shelter, food, clothing, safety, and the love of Christ.
- 2015
The ministry moves into its own shelter house outside the big city, able to care for even more women and their children.
- 2017
The first Summer Camp is held — and becomes a yearly event, ministering to 100 or more children each year.
- 2023
Another home is purchased to help still more women and children escape suffering and begin to lead independent, hopeful lives.
- Today
A second shelter is opening, land has been purchased for a permanent camp, and the dream of orphan care grows — as the Lord leads, and as long as there is need.
Our goals
The need is as great as our longing to help
As the Lord leads, OHPN will continue to expand this crucial ministry as long as there is a need. We long to open our second home, to grow our yearly children’s camp into a permanent place of welcome, and — one day — to open orphanages that give children a loving home, while helping mothers who cannot sufficiently care for their children so families don’t have to be torn apart.
Be part of the story
Your kindness writes the next chapter
Every gift helps shelter a family, welcome a child to camp, and carry hope a little further. Thank you, and God bless you.