We have been in touch with several of our partners in Ukraine and they echo what is heard in the news.
Some are in the east along the border where shelling is heavy and Russian tanks are crossing over into their regions, others are more central and continue to hear sounds of missiles and see smoke in the distance as key military and infrastructure is targeted. One has evacuated his family from the east, while choosing to stay behind to continue to minister to the many children and families he serves. Another is watching the news and traffic carefully to determine when and if evacuation is wise. And another is hunkered down with many children they minister to in a nearby bomb shelter until it is safe to return.
Our partners and the vulnerable children and families they serve are in immediate need of:
- Gas / transportation
- Food and water
- Medicine and supplies
- Shelter as it will take days for many to travel west
Our current focus is on mobilizing resources and enlisting our network of partner organizations to assist with urgent needs on the ground in Ukraine. Together we can provide desperately needed relief to many of our partners who are doing everything they can to help minister to vulnerable children and families.
Praise God, He is giving our partners strength and peace amidst the devastation and instability.
One pastor and ministry friend in Ukraine, a few hours after the invasion started, said:
“… God is giving us peace to stay. So, we have chosen to stay here to serve the people of our church, to serve the kids of the ministry we have, and to serve people of this nation in any way that we can. We have become a place of refuge already, people know that we are a safe place to come to, and either get food or blankets or a place. And we are going to do just that. So, do pray with us and for us. We are believing that God will glorify his name through our nation. And We pray for Russia as well, for peace all over the world.”
These are sentiments expressed by each of our partners.
Please be praying for them, along with the children and families they serve for:
- Protection of mind, body, and spirit
- Wisdom as they navigate delicate circumstances
- God’s nearness and peace
- God to be glorified through the country and incredible people of Ukraine
We will keep you updated as we hear more updates from our dear friends and partners in Ukraine.
Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.