Rehema for Kids

Rehema for Kids Rehema for Kids was launched in 2006 by two couples that God brought together. They discovered a shared heart and passion for the children of Kenya.

We rescue and educate orphaned, abused, and vulnerable children in Kenya - breaking the cycle of generational poverty so kids can reach their God-given potential. We envision a Kenya where the streets are no longer filled with abandoned children; where villages are filled with Christian disciples who live their lives with purpose and carry the light of Christ into the next generation. Co-Founders

Jeff & Carla Picicci and Ron & Joyce Panzero chose to step out in faith and live out their shared motto of “No Regrets!”

Our first baby was found abandoned in a cornfield in Kenya on a cold, rainy day in July of 2006. Jeff and Carla named her Rehema Grace. Rehema means Mercy in Swahili. On that day, Rehema for Kids was born to support our In Step Foundation’s Children’s Home and Academy. In Step Foundation (ISF) is registered as a company under the Kenyan Companies Act. This registration allows the organization to officially operate as a licensed children’s home that provides care for the children. Today, more than 200 children at ISF are blessed to have "Baba Jeff" and "Mama Carla" at the helm! The Piciccis work closely with the Rehema for Kids leadership to help ensure the current and future needs of the children are met.

06/06/2026

One of the most beautiful sounds in the world isn't found in a concert hall, at the beach, or in a cathedral.

It's hearing a child call your name.

As Estha's vehicle rolled past the playground at In Step Children's Home last October, the children immediately recognized her. Within seconds, the playground erupted with smiles, waves, laughter, and excited voices.

Many of these children arrived carrying stories of loss, abandonment, abuse, or neglect. Some came to us fighting for their lives. Today, they are surrounded by people who know them, love them, and believe in their future.

And the love goes both ways. In her reflections from Kenya, Estha wrote:

"It's so easy to love these beautiful children. But what took me by surprise is how deeply they love us back."

Moments like this remind us that Rehema is more than a children's home. It's a family.

❤️

06/05/2026

When Estha visited Kenya last year, she described the long drive from Eldoret to In Step Children's Home as one of the most sobering experiences of her life.

Poverty seemed to stretch for miles. Tiny homes. Roadside markets. Families struggling to survive.

But then something changed.

"As we reached the gates of the campus, it felt as if we had crossed from darkness into light. The heaviness lifted instantly. Children came running, their faces beaming, their laughter ringing through the air. They waved wildly, shouting our names with excitement and love."

In that moment, all the hardship outside the gates faded into the background.

Love had met us at the gate.

These children have endured more than most of us can imagine. Yet somehow they are the first to smile, the first to laugh, and the first to welcome others with open arms.

This is why Rehema for Kids exists.

❤️ Because every child deserves a safe place to belong.
❤️ Because every child deserves hope.
❤️ Because every child deserves to be greeted by love.

🎓✨ Thriving Thursday: Meet Dennis Jabali ✨🎓Dennis Jabali’s story began with uncertainty and hardship. Born in November 2...
06/04/2026

🎓✨ Thriving Thursday: Meet Dennis Jabali ✨🎓

Dennis Jabali’s story began with uncertainty and hardship. Born in November 2004, Dennis was abandoned in a busy marketplace in December 2006. Because he was still too young to talk, he could not tell authorities any information about his family. After spending three months at a crisis rescue center while attempts were made to locate his parents, Dennis joined our family at our children’s home.

Today, Dennis is thriving. 💛

Mama Carla describes Dennis as “very inquisitive about everything,” and he has always loved welcoming visitors to our campus and proudly sharing his papers and drawings with them. Dennis is known for his happy-go-lucky personality and curiosity about the world around him.

We are excited to share that Dennis is currently attending Kitale National Polytechnic and TENP, where he is working toward obtaining his CDL license and a certificate in Travel & Tourism. His dream is to become a safari driver someday. 🚐🦒

In Kenya, the hospitality and tourism industry provides steady employment opportunities, and we are proud to watch Dennis pursue a career path that matches both his interests and future goals.

It costs about $3,000 per year to help send a student to college or vocational training in Kenya, including room and board.

Would you consider helping another student like Dennis pursue their dreams and build a stable future? 💛

Give here: https://gcld.co/PVG6xyZ

OUR STORYRehema for Kids began in 2006 when founders Jeff and Carla Picicci were handed a newborn baby who had been aban...
06/04/2026

OUR STORY

Rehema for Kids began in 2006 when founders Jeff and Carla Picicci were handed a newborn baby who had been abandoned in a Kenyan cornfield. They named her Rehema, the Swahili word for "Mercy''. Just a few days later, several more abandoned children were brought to their door. In that moment, Jeff and Carla knew God was calling them to open a home for for orphaned, abandoned, and abused children.

For over 20 years, Rehema for Kids has rescued and nurtured hundreds of children, providing them with a safe home and a bright future. Welcome to our In Step Children's Home and Academy-the only facility in our region where children can progress from primary school to high school, trade school, and even college.
Today, our graduates are realizing their God-given potential and transforming their communities through their education, skills, and faith.

Monkey bars, climbing structures, sunshine, and endless energy. ☀️💛The playground is one of the favorite spots on campus...
06/02/2026

Monkey bars, climbing structures, sunshine, and endless energy. ☀️💛

The playground is one of the favorite spots on campus, and it is easy to see why. Recess is a chance to burn off energy, build friendships, try new things, and simply enjoy being a kid.

There is always plenty of laughter, a little friendly competition, and someone determined to make it all the way across the monkey bars. 🙌

Watching our children play reminds us how important these everyday moments are. Childhood is meant to be filled with fun, exploration, and the freedom to just be a kid.

Tell us in the comments: What was your favorite recess activity when you were growing up? 👇

💛 Munchkin Monday: Meet Alan Carl Baraka. 💛"Sorry, I love you."It's one of Alan's favorite phrases, and it melts his aun...
06/01/2026

💛 Munchkin Monday: Meet Alan Carl Baraka. 💛

"Sorry, I love you."

It's one of Alan's favorite phrases, and it melts his aunties' hearts every time he says it. 🥹💛

Estimated Birthday: October 6, 2024 🎂

Alan joined our family in late 2024 after being found abandoned. At the time, it was believed he was approximately one month old.

Today, Alan is thriving.

He loves being around other children and especially enjoys playtime and mealtime. One of his favorite activities is pushing a toy trolley around as he explores the world around him. His caretakers describe him as observant, energetic, and full of curiosity.

Alan is reaching exciting milestones as he grows. He has recently learned to walk and climb, is beginning to use short words, and loves music, singing, clapping, and being on the move. Wherever there is activity, there is a good chance Alan wants to be part of it.

Please join us in praising God for saving Alan's life and for the health, growth, and joy we see in him today.

Alan is currently available for partial or full sponsorship. Would you consider being part of his story?

💛 $21 provides three days of care
💛 $49 provides one week of care

https://vist.ly/566sh

“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.” ~ Psalm 28:7 NIV💛 What a comfort to kn...
05/31/2026

“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.” ~ Psalm 28:7 NIV

💛 What a comfort to know that we never walk alone.

When challenges come, God remains our source of strength, protection, and hope. We see His faithfulness every day as He continues to provide for our children, our staff, and this ministry.

May you be encouraged today to place your trust in Him, knowing He is faithful to carry you through every season.

We want to say a heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone who has been praying for missionary Beth Ann as she seeks permanent res...
05/30/2026

We want to say a heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone who has been praying for missionary Beth Ann as she seeks permanent residency, allowing her to continue serving our children and staff in Kenya long-term. 💛

This journey has required so much patience, faith, and trust in God’s timing, and we are incredibly grateful for every prayer, encouraging message, and word of support along the way.

Please continue praying for wisdom, favor, and smooth processing as the final steps continue. We are so thankful to have a community that faithfully walks alongside our missionaries and our children’s home in prayer.

Your prayers truly matter. ✨

Happy Friday from Kenya! 💙🫧There is something special about watching a room full of children discover joy in the simples...
05/29/2026

Happy Friday from Kenya! 💙🫧

There is something special about watching a room full of children discover joy in the simplest things.

A few bubbles floating through the air turned into laughter, excitement, and a classroom full of wonder. For a few moments, everyone was reaching, chasing, smiling, and completely caught up in the fun.

These are the moments we love. Moments that remind children they are safe, loved, and free to simply enjoy being kids.

Thank you for helping create a place where childhood can flourish. ✨

Rollin’ through to brighten your day!☀️These little moments remind us that childhood is meant to be filled with laughter...
05/27/2026

Rollin’ through to brighten your day!☀️

These little moments remind us that childhood is meant to be filled with laughter, movement, friendship, and fun. 💛

Because of faithful supporters like you, about 240 children at our children’s home have a safe place to learn, play, and simply be kids.

Thank you for helping create moments like these every single day. 🛞✨

Address

Kennewick, WA

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+15094058677

Website

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