Humbling reality of chronic hunger
I am using this platform today to draw attention to the ongoing food crisis that is so pervasive in the Central African Republic (CAR). As matter of fact, JHC’s food costs for the children in our program have skyrocketed in the past 12 months. Despite this increase, we have decided not to cut back on food for these precious children who need nutritious meals.
I know there are many areas of the world experiencing food insecurity, so I encourage you to give generously to the food program of any organizations or churches you support. The situation is really that dire.
A BIBLICAL APPROACH TO HUNGER
While the root cause of hunger is multi-faceted, it is not impossible to combat. Julie’s Heart Cry always wants to be a good steward of our kingdom resources. And we certainly want to continue providing quality meals to those in our ministry programs.
Charles Spurgeon once said, “If you give a man the Gospel, wrap it in a sandwich. And if you give a man a sandwich, wrap it in the Gospel.” Spurgeon’s quote is based on Matthew 25:35 and 40 when Jesus says, “For I was hungry and you gave me food … as you did it to one of the least of these, you did it to me.”
There is something quite humbling about hunger. I cannot tell you how many starving people have come to our ministry compound in Bangui seeking a plate of food.
For example, a young mother recently approached our gate pleading for food. She explained that her sick child needed medical care at the nearby hospital, but this young woman had not eaten anything for several days and was too exhausted to make the trip.
A NEW CASSAVA FARM
I am thrilled to announce that, in conjunction with our ministry partners, we now own a 24-acre cassava farm. This is a major deal because cassava is a staple food in the CAR and will produce food for hundreds of people. During my recent trip overseas, I was delighted to see how well the cassava farm is doing.
When families don’t have enough to eat or money to buy food, they must often make difficult and dangerous decisions that impact their children’s well-being. Some students are forced to drop out of school and find odd jobs so they can help support their families. Often, these children are treated as mules, carrying firewood or water for long distances to sell for very little money.
This is all the more reason JHC must stay the course in serving the ultra-poor. It is imperative for children to eat nutritious meals so they can do well in school. Their health, in addition to their academic performance, depends on it.
And speaking of academic performance, we held a party for the students in our Youth at Risk program back in June to celebrate their hard work during the school year. I was overjoyed to hear and see how much these children enjoyed that meal.
I want to thank you, our faithful supporters, for making this celebration a reality.