Supplying Food, Medicines and Blankets to Somalia
The people of Somalia have been experiencing the horrific, devastating effects of war for over 20 years. In addition to that, they are in the midst of what is considered to be East Africa's worst draught and famine in over 60 years. The result is millions of people on the brink of starvation who desperately need help. Thanks to a generous donation from Iris Relief and many others, towards our relief effort, we were able to bring the good news of God's love in practical ways to these beautiful people of Somalia!
We airlifted nearly a ton of Ready-to-Use-Therapeutic-Food, specifically formulated for the restoration of acutely malnourished children, into Somalia. We brought the food to the most desperate IDP (Internally Displaced People) camp that we could find. In this IDP camp the people's homes were built from sticks and rags and were located on top of a blown up building. Their floors were composed of slabs of broken concrete and piles of rubble from a building that had been blown to pieces - a vivid illustration of a people living in the midst of war. Nearly all of the people in this camp were malnourished to some degree and they weren't receiving any aid from anyone. Imagine the hope that sprang up within them when we arrived with a truck load of high quality food! An estimated 500 people were living at this camp and we were able to distribute enough food to last everyone several days!
We also purchased 100 large rain-proof coverings for their homes! The people at these IDP camps are exposed to the rain because the roofs and walls of their homes are made of mostly torn rags. This causes the people to be very susceptible to disease so providing rain-proof coverings for them is highly important. Praise God that they will now be much more protected from rain and disease!
In addition to food and house coverings, we also distributed bubbles to the children! It was incredible to see joy and laughter burst forth from these precious ones as they blew bubbles and played with big smiles on their faces!
We were able to visit the main city hospital as well where we brought much needed medical supplies for the doctors. Because of the malnutrition and a lack of blankets, the children have a difficult time staying warm. As a result, many die of hypothermia. So we purchased 200 blankets and brought them to the hospital to be given to the children. By simply providing blankets, potentially many lives will be saved!
We give all the glory to God for providing us with the opportunity to bring help to the people of Somalia and save lives! Although the food, medical supplies, rain-proof coverings and blankets will eventually be used up and wear out, the hope that was restored to the hearts of these wonderful Somalis will remain with them for years to come.
Thank you Iris Relief for loving the people of Somalia!!
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