by Halcyon Martin
Generosity and kindness in the struggle leads to hope and a future.
We are acutely aware that this year has been very different, and for many very difficult.
For the people we work with in Burundi, Rwanda, South Sudan, DR Congo and Uganda this is especially true. Living, which under normal circumstances is a daily struggle, has become more of a battle for survival. Many have no income, food prices have risen, crime is increasing – people are hungry and desperate.
However, over and over again, because of your generosity, our African partners are seeing first hand the utter relief and overwhelmed gratitude as emergency food has been distributed, medical help has been given and words of encouragement have been shared. What you have given to accomplish this has undoubtedly saved lives. Thank you!
To recall the words of Paul to Philemon which says,
“Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother (and sister), have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people.”
For many this year has been less about moving forward and more about survival.
- Nadia*(an ex-child soldier) was just finding her feet in her new business venture selling clothes. This year, because of the pandemic, she was forced to close her stall in the market in Goma and rely again on food distribution, yet she is looking forward to the day when she can resume her business. (*name changed)
- Esther* (a single mother whose husband was killed) was desperately concerned about how she was going to feed herself and her 6 children. She found that sponsorship and emergency aid brought relief for what would have been an impossible task and she is looking forward seeing her children grow and learn as they return to school. (*name changed)
With poverty increasing many children will find themselves homeless, on the streets or living on dumps. Our heart is not only to continue to help those who are currently under our care but to be able to stretch our arms wide and welcome more of the lost and broken into a place of safety and care from where they can rebuild their lives and we are excited to be able to share this journey with you.
We are very aware that many of you have given sacrificially this year and for that we are grateful. So it is with no sense of obligation or pressure that we offer you the opportunity to give a Christmas Gift of Hope. We know that many like to give at Christmas and so we would be failing if we did not offer the opportunity. If you would like to give at this time, no matter how small, please do, a little can change a life!
We wish you and your family a very happy and safe Christmas.