(MK Team pictured above: back row – Craig Stevenson, Jon Konnerup, Mike Esquibel, front row – Carole Miller, Pam Konnerup, and Jill Wolf)

Approximately 30 percent of overseas workers return home early due to personal and family stress. – Germaine W. Shames.

The BBFI Mission Office has taken steps to help alleviate the challenges our MKs and their families face by actively focusing on ways to come alongside them during many of their frequent transitions.  A six-member team within our office works to connect with over 350 BBFI MKs to fulfill our Mission Statement to “provide care for our MKs through preparation, ongoing encouragement, and support during transition.”

From an MK parent:

“We LOVE that the BBFI Mission Office LOVES on missionary kids!!! It is a tremendous blessing to know that there are many people lifting them up in prayer as they deal with the difficulties that come with growing up and living in a different culture. THANK YOU!!!”

With the financial gifts designated from churches, there are many ways which the MK team provides encouragement to our MKs. Listed below are just a few.

• Provide MK teens with transitional information on topics such as preparing for college, gaining employment, and managing finances.
• Provide $150 for new college freshmen to help with setting up their dorm room or college expenses.
• Offer the workbook “Returning Well” to MKs who are transitioning to the US as college freshmen.
• Maintain a space for MKs to voice what MK life is like.  Their blogs can be seen at bbfimissions.com/bbfimk.

Because of funds received through the Kidz4Mkz program, we have been able to send out birthday money for our MKs and purchase a dozen different musical instruments and equipment that MKs are now using in ministry.

Beginning in 2019, we would like to begin helping with funds for MKs who wish to go on international mission trips, begin offering a $500 college scholarship, and begin offering Kidz4Mkz curriculum for churches to use during VBS, Awana, or mission conferences.

How can you and your church help?

Individually — Every member of your church can take an active part in making MKs feel welcome and comfortable as they live and mingle among you.  By taking personal interest and responsibility in helping them integrate into their age groups, your efforts can have a lifetime impact on how well they navigate this difficult time.

Collectively — As your church designates funds to the MK Program (in addition to your regular missionary giving), we are enabled to provide more resources and training for those missionary families who are navigating volatile seasons of transition.

Contact the MK Team today at mk@bbfimissions.com!