Help for Residents and First Responders in California

CALIFORNIA – The relentless roar of flames spoke of a battle raging across the California hills. With smoke billowing into the sky, a menacing gray shroud choked the air and cast a dreadful shadow over a decimated landscape. In its wake, residents and first responders in California saw the decimation of their community. The devastating Los Angeles fires caused more than 25 deaths and destroyed over 40,000 acres.

Within those acres were schools, businesses, community centers, and homes—all of which lay in ruin—accompanied by memories of a time that now feels all too distant. For the Sanchez family, this particularly rang true.

“At 3:30 in the morning, we got an alert,” Jennifer said. “We thought it was just an order to evacuate and that we would come back. We didn’t know that we were going to come back to nothing.” Arriving home to absolute devastation took a toll not only on Jennifer, but on her children, as well. “I’m going to miss my toys and our room,” her young daughter said.

Because of your aid, Operation Blessing was on the ground amid the fires distributing hot meals, hygiene kits, baby formula, and even cookware to alleviate the urgent needs of those who had lost everything. With your help, our relief team was able to give Jennifer and her family critical supplies to help support them during this difficult time. “You guys offered your hand,” continued Jennifer, “to be able to support us and give us the guidance that we needed. … It was a blessing.”

Help for First Responders in California

But your help didn’t end there. At Fire Station 81 in Los Angeles, a critical hub in the firefighting effort, heroes faced a different sort of challenge. For first responders in California, you showed how much you care. Exhausted from the unprecedented fires, these first responders needed some encouragement and support.

When we asked them how we could help, they mentioned a need for more tools. “Some of the basic tools just to work on stuff around the station, on the rigs themselves,” said Fire Chief Maker Pashabezyan.

Because of your help, our relief teams gave the station the equipment they needed to support the first responders. To top things off, empowered by your generosity, volunteers became beacons of compassion and arrived ready to put together first responder care kits—to let firefighters know that they were not alone in their fight. Packages contained essential supplies, such as solar lamps, hygiene kits, and snacks like protein drinks and bars.

“We typically are the ones doing the supporting,” Chief Pashabezyan said, “so it’s nice to have somebody appreciate us like Operation Blessing.” The care packages were more than just supplies; they were a tangible expression of empathy, a message that resonated deeply with the firefighters.

While the fires may have scorched the Californian landscape, they couldn’t extinguish your generosity. Your compassion has brought hope and healing not just to families in California but also to the first responders, who worked tirelessly to put out the fires. Thank you for being there in this time of need!

Orphaned by the Earthquake: You Help Rebuild Life after Myanmar

HELP DISASTER VICTIMS NOW

When a deadly earthquake struck Myanmar, it left behind devastation, loss—and children like Khine Zar Win, orphaned and facing a future forever changed. But thanks to compassionate friends like you, Operation Blessing is there to bring help and hope.

A Life Shattered by Loss

“I was playing with other kids under the house,” Khine remembered. “When the earthquake started, we ran outside to the field. People were shouting, ‘Run… Run…!’”

At first, she thought her parents were safe. But as news came in and phone lines reconnected, the truth was revealed.

“I heard a concrete wall fall down, but later I found out that the building where my mom and dad worked was destroyed,” she said. “They told us that both my parents were in the building and they passed away. I cried and cried a lot.”

At just 14 years old, Khine — orphaned by the earthquake — was suddenly thrust into the role of caregiver for her two little sisters aged 7 and eighteen months. “I had to drop out of school to take care of them,” she explained. “I want them to continue their education… but I worry that if I don’t have enough money, they won’t have food to eat.”

Friends Like You Are Helping

In the face of unimaginable hardship, Khine shared a dream that continues to shine bright: “I want to become an engineer. I want to build houses that are strong and safe—ones that won’t collapse during earthquakes.”

Khine and her siblings are now staying with her grandparents. Thanks to your support, Operation Blessing was able to deliver emergency supplies and resources to Khine’s family. “These items support our family and our small shop,” she said. “When we sell them, we earn money. When we eat the snacks, we feel satisfied.”

Your generosity is not only meeting urgent physical needs—it’s also giving children like Khine the courage to dream again after immense tragedy.

The Road Ahead

Although the road to recovery will be long, Operation Blessing is committed to walking alongside children and families impacted by the Myanmar earthquake. Together, we are looking for more ways to help Khine specifically support her family.

“I really wish my parents were not in that building,” Khine said quietly. “That’s what I always wished for.” But now, with your continued prayers and support, she has something new: a reason to hope.

Thank you for being part of this mission of love and compassion.

We Love Our Volunteers!

A message from Operation Blessing COO, Drew Friedrich to our volunteers:

What an incredible privilege it is to speak to you today—a group of people who have given so much in service of others. As dedicated volunteers, you’ve given your time showing up early, staying late, whenever and wherever we needed you to help us bring help and hope to those who are hurting. Not because you had to, but because something in you said, “Yes I can help.”

You’ve offered your time and talents, your skills, your strength, your creativity and used them to bring relief and comfort, help and hope to some of the hardest situations people will ever face. You’ve also given of your hearts pouring out kindness compassion and care with no expectation of anything in return.

The true impact of that kind of service is so hard to measure. Not because it’s so small, but because it’s so profound. You may never know all the names or face. You may never hear the full stories. But I can assure you, thousands of lives have been changed because of you.

Dedicated Volunteers Helping People in Crisis

People who were overwhelmed by disaster found steady hands and warm meals families in crisis received help they didn’t know was coming. Prayers of desperation were answered because of you.

In Galatians 6:9 we’re reminded, “Let us not grow weary in doing good for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” You didn’t give up; you kept going. And because of that, the harvest, the impact is real.

A year ago I spoke to you about Matthew 5:16 which says, “Let your light so shine before others that they may see your good works and glorify your father who’s in heaven.” I asked you to join us on the journey to continue serving with us, to continue standing with us, and to invite your friends and loved ones to come with you in shining a light to a hurting world.

And that’s exactly what you’ve done. As dedicated volunteers, you’ve let your light shine in the most practical, meaningful ways. And in doing so, you’ve reminded people that they are not forgotten and that there’s still good in this world and a father who loves them.

“As dedicated volunteers, you’ve let your light shine in the most practical, meaningful ways. And in doing so, you’ve reminded people that they are not forgotten and that there’s still good in this world and a father who loves them.”
-Drew Friedrich

So thank you, thank you for your kindness. Thank you for your sacrifice. And thank you for demonstrating to the world what it means to love thy neighbor. We could not do what we do without you, and we are so grateful. God bless you!

Discover How You Blessed a Family in Peru

PERU – There was nothing special about María’s house in San José de Iquitos that would draw attention to it. Like its neighbors, the crumbling wooden structure sat on tall stilts to protect it from the floodwaters of the Amazon River during the rainy season. An odd patchwork of faded fabrics and plastic hung in place to block the wind and rain from entering and doing further damage, but it barely did its job. The home was not a safe place to live. Through your generosity, you blessed a family in Peru by giving them a chance at a better life.

At 19, María already had her hands full. The oldest of five siblings, she had taken on the responsibility of caring for them after their mother died and their father left. “We have no support from anyone except ourselves. My siblings are my family, and family should never be abandoned,” she said. Her only option was to take over her mother’s business of selling medicinal plants at a local market.

Every day, she got up early to sell a range of plants, barks, and resins. María worked hard, but it wasn’t enough to provide three meals a day for her siblings. “I wish I could save from my business,” she said, “but I can’t because everything I earn goes to cover our food.”

The Blessing of a New Home

When Operation Blessing heard about this young family, you generously made it possible for us to reach out to help in a number of critical ways. First, you blessed a family in Peru by providing them a new, safe, and fully equipped home with sturdy furniture and bright colors.

Then, you helped give María vital equipment and supplies for her medicinal plants business—a wooden table, shelving, plastic bottles, raffia rope, and much more—all to make her business more efficient and effective.

Through your support, we also provided the family with information about good hygiene, disease prevention, and the importance of drinking only safe water. They were delighted to receive necessary hygiene supplies like toothpaste, toothbrushes, hand soap, and rubbing alcohol.

You blessed a family in Peru with hope and security, and María couldn’t have been more appreciative. “We are very grateful for the help with our home and everything that God gave us. I thank Operation Blessing and the donors who supported us,” she said. “We used to get wet inside the house—but now we have this beautiful and safe home.”

Thanks for helping keep this sweet family together—and for offering them the promise of a better tomorrow.

Portraits of Promise for Vulnerable Children Worldwide

Meet Brian | Kenya

KENYA – Brian is a sweet young boy who should have had a world of possibilities open to him. But instead, he lived with his four siblings in the Madurai slums on the outskirts of Nairobi, Kenya. Extreme poverty forced Brian into the streets, where he collected scrap metal to sell so he could buy a little food to eat. Vulnerable children worldwide, like Brian, often face such harsh realities. Without intervention, his future looked bleak—a life of drugs, gangs, and ongoing poverty.

Brian’s mother did her best as a single parent, but she had no consistent income. Being orphaned herself, she simply didn’t know how to care for her little ones. Sometimes, their landlord locked them out because she couldn’t afford to pay $20 for rent.

Can you imagine how desperate she must have felt to watch her children searching for scrap metal in the street—in hopes of buying something to eat?

Grabbing a Lifeline of Hope

Children like Brian can’t choose where they’re born. They have few opportunities to create better lives for themselves. Most continue to live a life of hardship, passing it down to the next generation. That is, unless someone like you intervenes.

Thankfully, Brian’s story didn’t end there. His loving mother reached out for help and found it. She took Brian to Our Home, a children’s home with Orphan’s Promise. Once there, Brian received nutritious meals, counseling, and a stable, caring living environment. He also began attending school there.

Today, thanks to the ongoing care and support of friends like you, Brian is able to read and write. He loves school and wants to attend every day. Now that he feels safe, he can dream of a better future—and get the support he needs to make those dreams come true!

Meet Esmily | Kenya

KENYA – Vulnerable children worldwide, including Esmily, need such lifelines. Five-year-old Esmily also joined Our Home after being rescued from extreme poverty that could have left her both orphaned and homeless. Once she became part of a stable environment that had proper food and caregivers who loved and supported her, she blossomed.

Esmily works hard on her studies at our school and is growing into an intelligent, confident child. A quick learner, she has begun helping around the house and completes her tasks independently. She began attending church and now loves reading the Bible, attending prayer meetings, and singing on the children’s church praise and worship team.

Your love is enabling this precious child to thrive— personally, academically, and spiritually. Her caregivers believe that Esmily has great potential for success that will give her a brighter future.

Meet Franzi | Guatemala

GUATEMALA – Franzi’s life changed when he met Orphan’s Promise in 2019. Franzi was just 6 years old when his father abandoned them, leaving his family in extreme poverty. They lived in a tiny house with no electricity. His mother made just $2 a day working in the fields and could only feed her children potatoes with salt and water. Many nights, Franzi slept with the animals because there was no room inside.

From a young age, Franzi began helping his mother by selling whatever they could manage— ice cream, jams, vegetables, and fruit—after school to earn a little extra money. By age 10, he began traveling further from home to sell their wares, but he yearned for more. He wanted to become a doctor or an engineer, but that would require more schooling.

Then compassionate people like you intervened through Orphan’s Promise and helped Franzi complete school and even get a college degree. Today, he works as a project manager for World Vision. “My life has changed radically,” he told us. “I now inspire other young people in my community.” He dreams of furthering his education and one day getting his master’s degree.

A New Partnership to Help Vulnerable Children

For 20 years, Orphan’s Promise has helped vulnerable children worldwide, like Brian, Esmily, and Franzi, thrive in more than 70 countries around the world through improved nutrition, discipleship, and education. This month, they are officially joining hands with Operation Blessing, becoming a part of our organization—and our family!

With more than 143 million orphaned and at-risk children globally, the need is great. We believe that together, we can help even more children and families— and make a deeper impact in communities through hunger relief, medical care, clean water, and even disaster relief.

Please join us in welcoming Orphan’s Promise to the Operation Blessing family.

A Well of Promise: Bringing Clean Water to Baan Nong Khae

THAILAND – For the families of Baan Nong Khae, Thailand, every dry season meant desperation. As shallow wells ran dry and rainwater disappeared, parents faced impossible choices—spend scarce income on costly water or ration what little they had. Children fell sick, and daily life revolved around the struggle for a basic human necessity: clean water. That is what generations of these villagers endured—until friends like you brought clean water to Baan Nong Khae.

Through your compassionate giving, Operation Blessing was able to drill a deep, 64-meter well and install a water treatment system that provides safe, clean water to all 255 residents of Baan Nong Khae. For the first time, clean water to Baan Nong Khae means families no longer fear shortages. Children can drink without the risk of illness. Mothers can cook and clean without worrying about contamination. The future is full of hope, all because of the love and generosity of people like you.

The Impact of Clean Water

For young Wiphada, a 9-year-old student, the difference is life-changing. “We are glad to have this project. The water is clear and odorless. Having access to clean drinking water helps us stay healthy. Thank you for providing our community with good quality water.”

Beyond ensuring a reliable supply of clean water, the project also empowered the community with essential knowledge and training. A dedicated water committee was established, with five trained members responsible for maintaining the well. Additionally, Operation Blessing staff trained residents on proper handwashing, safe water storage, and ways to keep their village and water sources clean.

At the well’s dedication, the community gathered with the church to celebrate and give thanks. As they stood before the fresh, flowing water, a local pastor shared the words of Jesus: “But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life” (John 4:14). Indeed, this well is more than just a physical blessing—it is a promise of a better tomorrow, and together we brought it to them in Jesus’ name.

This gift of clean water to Baan Nong Khae is transforming lives, and it wouldn’t be possible without the kindness of friends like you. Thank you for being a part of this life-changing work.

Six Months Later: Bringing Hope to Western North Carolina

HELP DISASTER VICTIMS NOW

NORTH CAROLINA – Six months have passed since Hurricane Helene tore through western North Carolina, but for many families, they are still reeling from the turmoil. Communities that once thrived are still working to recover, brick by brick, from the devastation left in the storm’s wake. Operation Blessing is still on the ground bringing hope to western North Carolina. Because of friends like you, we are continuing to walk alongside survivors as they rebuild their lives.

Delivering Comfort and Security to Those in Need

Our disaster relief team has been delivering furniture to families who lost everything. The furniture is more than just tables, chairs, or beds—they represent a fresh start and moving forward. For those who have been living without even the most basic comforts of home, these deliveries bring warmth, dignity, and a renewed sense of security.

“We’re trying to bring them back to a sense of normalcy,” says one of Operation Blessing’s staff. “To give them comfort. To remind them they’re not alone.”

Each couch and dining table rings the bell of hope—and a community coming together to rise above tragedy. All of this is supported by your kindness. With every delivery, we’re showing families that they haven’t been forgotten and that their journey toward healing will continue.

Support Still Needed for Full Recovery

Even though the storm is long gone, its impact is still being felt across the region. Many families are still living in temporary housing or struggling to meet their basic needs. The path to full recovery is long, and continued support is essential.

Thanks to your donations and prayers, Operation Blessing has been able to respond swiftly and compassionately. But there is still more work to be done. North Carolina needs you—your generosity, your prayers, your partnership.

Together, We Are Restoring Hope to Western North Carolina

Operation Blessing remains on the ground.

Recovery is never easy, but it becomes possible when we come together. Your support reminds these families that they’re not alone—that someone is standing with them in their hardest moments. That message of hope and love is just as important as any piece of furniture we can provide.

Thank you for being a vital part of this mission and helping us restore homes, comfort hearts, and rebuild lives. You are truly bringing hope to western North Carolina. Your kindness is making a lasting impact, one family at a time.

Immediate Relief After the Myanmar and Thailand Earthquake: Operation Blessing Responds to Tragedy

HELP DISASTER VICTIMS NOW

MYANMAR – After the deadly Myanmar and Thailand earthquake that took thousands of lives, Operation Blessing’s Global Disaster Response Team is on the ground, offering immediate help to those affected. Our team is working rigorously to assess the situation and provide much-needed aid to those facing this heartbreaking tragedy. With your support, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.

On the Ground: Providing Critical Aid in Bangkok

Members of our team are on location in Bangkok, assessing the situation and coordinating relief efforts alongside our local Myanmar team. They are working around the clock to bring essential resources to the hardest-hit communities. Thanks to your generosity, Operation Blessing has been able to respond quickly, delivering emergency supplies such as food, clean water, and medical kits to those who need it most.

Our team’s presence provides more than just physical supplies—it brings a message of hope, support, and compassion to those struggling in the aftermath of this disaster.

The Power of Prayer and Community Support

As they continue to serve victims of the Myanmar and Thailand earthquake, our team asks for your prayers. “Continue to pray for those who have been affected by this tragic situation, and continue to pray for our team.” These prayers are a powerful part of our mission.

We are deeply grateful for your generosity—whether through financial donations, volunteer efforts, or prayers. Every act of kindness allows us to reach more people and provide critical relief to those suffering.

Looking Ahead: A Long Road to Recovery

While the immediate relief efforts continue, the road to recovery for those affected by this disaster will be long and challenging. Operation Blessing is committed to walking alongside these communities, offering both short-term aid and long-term support as they rebuild their lives. We will continue to assess ongoing needs and adjust our response to ensure that we are providing the help that is most needed.

Your ongoing support after the Myanmar and Thailand earthquake is making all of this possible. Together, we can continue to bring hope, healing, and restoration to those in need. Thank you for being part of this mission. May God bless you and those you help through your generosity.

Here’s How You’re Helping Earthquake Survivors in Myanmar

MYANMAR- In the wake of the devastating 7.7- magnitude earthquake, hope is shining through in Myanmar—thanks to friends like you. The people of Myanmar were already facing incredible hardships, with over 1.6 million displaced before the earthquake struck. Now, as communities struggle to recover from yet another crisis, Operation Blessing is there, providing immediate relief and critical aid to earthquake survivors in Myanmar.

On The Ground: Immediate Relief for Myanmar

Our dedicated local team is on the ground, working tirelessly to prepare and distribute emergency relief kits to those in desperate need. These kits contain life-saving supplies—food, clean water, and essential hygiene products—ensuring that survivors have the resources to sustain themselves during this incredibly difficult time.

Because of your generosity, help is already reaching those who need it most. Your support has made it possible for us to act swiftly, getting aid to the hardest-hit areas and offering not just supplies, but also hope. For many families, your kindness is the difference between despair and the possibility of rebuilding their lives.

A Team of Hope: Experts Providing Aid in Myanmar

And this is just the beginning. The Global Disaster Response Team is already on the ground, bringing additional relief and support. These trained professionals are working alongside local teams to assess damage, distribute aid, and ensure that help reaches those in the most dire situations. Their presence is a crucial part of Operation Blessing’s long-term response, bringing not only critical resources but also encouragement and strength to those affected.

The Road Ahead: Long-Term Support for Earthquake Survivors in Myanmar

The road to recovery will be long, but Operation Blessing is committed to standing with the people of Myanmar in the days and weeks ahead. Continued support is essential to sustain these relief efforts and help families begin rebuilding their lives.

Thank you for being a part of this mission of mercy. Your generosity is making a real and immediate difference for earthquake survivors in Myanmar.

Operation Blessing Brings Hope to Oklahoma Through Wildfire Relief

OKLAHOMA – The aftermath of recent wildfires in Oklahoma is devastating. In just a few days, powerful winds fueled fast-moving flames, scorching vast areas across the state. Communities in Stillwater, Guthrie, Norman, and Luther have been hit hard, with homes, farms, and businesses reduced to ashes. Due to the size of the destruction across the rural landscape, the need for Oklahoma wildfire relief is greater than ever.

Firefighters battled tirelessly, but the sheer number of fires and intense winds made containment extremely difficult. Families from all backgrounds—regardless of wealth or status—have lost everything. These wildfires didn’t pick and choose; they tore through neighborhoods indiscriminately, leaving widespread destruction in their wake.

Operation Blessing Takes Action

As news of the disaster spread, your support allowed Operation Blessing to quickly mobilize a response team to assess the damage and deliver much-needed Oklahoma wildfire relief. Our team is on the ground meeting with community leaders, and first responders to coordinate support for those affected.

One key partner has been the Luther Community Service Center, a local hub providing food, clothing, and essentials to struggling families. With so many residents displaced and left with nothing, even the most basic necessities—like hygiene products—are in short supply. Thanks to your support we’ve been able to distribute hygiene kits, meal kits, and home depot cleanup equipment as part of our Oklahoma wildfire relief efforts, offering some comfort in a time of overwhelming loss.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors

In the face of tragedy, the perseverance of the Oklahoma community is shining through. Volunteers, churches, and organizations have come together, showing that no one has to face this hardship alone.

How You Can Make a Difference

Operation Blessing is committed to helping Oklahoma’s wildfire victims—but we can’t do it alone. You can help by donating, spreading the word, or volunteering to support those in need.

Continue to visit OB.org to learn more about our continuing Oklahoma wildfire relief efforts. Also follow us on social media for updates on how we’re bringing relief to communities in crisis. Together, we can make a real impact.