By Alison Johnston Mistak | Director of Development
“There is great famine and hunger that I have never seen before. We have found ourselves trying to feed other children that are not in our programme. It is something we cannot avoid; it is a matter of life or death. Children and adults are streaming to our home for food help, most of them too weak to turn away, especially children. The children in our home have been giving up their lunch to give to these hungry children. Please pray for our country. We are very much affected.” Pastor Patrick Kimawachi, Gospel Believers Children’s Home
By now, most of you have seen the heartbreaking stories of famine and starvation coming out of East Africa. The worst drought in decades is driving millions of people out of their home areas in search of food and killing tens of thousands of vulnerable children. Even for those not in the direct famine zone, the food shortages caused by the drought and influx of refugees is driving food prices up again. Food staples like corn and rice have doubled and almost tripled in some areas, while meat and fruit have become more of a luxury item for the millions living in poverty.
The escalating crisis makes us exceptionally grateful for the AYA farm. Despite the drought in the eastern part of Kenya, the western agricultural area where the farm is located has received rainfall. The amount of rain has been less than usual, but it has been adequate for the majority of the crops to grow. Unfortunately, many farms have not been as lucky, and AYA had to hire guards to keep people from stealing the corn.
One of our main concerns, is that not only will the drought continue, but the repercussions could be felt for quite sometime due to subsequent food shortages. We continue to seek support not only for expanding the farm, but to ensure we are prepared to produce the most corn possible. This includes $2000 to replace the tractor tires that are desperately worn.
Please consider a donation at any level. You can help ensure that vulnerable children receive the nourishment and hope they deserve.
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