Breaking Tradition from Water Scarcity in the Best Sort of Way

PERU – Elvis trudged along the dusty path with a heavy jug slung across his slender 11-year-old frame. The sun hung high in the sky outside the village of Llinquipata as Elvis and his father began the difficult walk to collect water. Beads of sweat already trickled down Elvis’s forehead. But father and son pressed on for this essential resource their family so desperately needed. Water scarcity and struggle were all Elvis and his family had ever known.

Unfortunately, the journey to fetch water was a ritual of suffering that Elvis’s family and the community of Llinquipata had endured for generations. The remote village relied on either collecting water that ran off their tin roofs during the rainy season or on long treks for water. Elvis often undertook the exhausting journey to collect water from distant wells. The water had a distinct odor and yellowish hue. So even a successful trip came with limited reward.

Overcoming Water Scarcity with a Water Treatment System

But now, thanks to the generosity of donors like you, a new day has emerged for Elvis and his neighbors in Llinquipata. They’ve received a state-of-the-art, solar-powered water system. And the people of this remote village no longer struggle with water scarcity.

The innovative solution you helped provide includes a treatment system and an elevated tank to store clean water. A network of pipes brings this precious resource directly to the homes in the community. This eliminates the crippling journey to fetch water from dirty wells forever! The added blessing of bathrooms with biodigester toilets has given each family the power to protect their health like never before.

The End of the Generational Struggle for Clean Water

Previously, Elvis had grown up witnessing the generational struggle for clean water that had defined the lives of people like his mother, Rute. Now, donors like you have given this young boy the opportunity to become part of a historic turning point that has shattered the tradition of water scarcity. One thing is certain for Elvis, his family, and the surrounding community of Llinquipata. Some traditions deserve to be broken.

“My family and I are overjoyed,” Rute said. “We used to have to strain the water we carried to utilize it. Now, thanks to Operation Blessing, we have water very close to us, and the water has been filtered and purified. … We are really grateful for this help and blessing we received.”

A Season of Growth for Indonesian Chili Farmers Thanks to You

INDONESIA – Working in the agriculture industry can bring a great harvest, or it can be filled with insurmountable challenges and pitfalls. Countless variables have to come together just right in order for crops to flourish. Natural factors beyond our control such as the weather, grade of soil, and animals looking for a snack—combined with other challenges like lack of proper tools and poor economic standing—can all interfere with the quality of the harvest for an Indonesian chili farmer.

Indonesian Chili Farmers in remote areas are all too familiar with these challenges. However, thanks to your dedication to helping people in vulnerable communities, a group of farmers in Indonesia recently received the needed support to significantly improve their crops.

Mr. Radianus is a chili farmer in the rural community of Bawamataluo. His crop provided his primary source of income. Needless to say, when his harvest didn’t produce a high yield, he was devastated. He grew desperate for his situation to change.

Thankfully, Operation Blessing heard about his dilemma and knew how to help. Because of your generosity, Mr. Radianus and other chili pepper farmers in similar situations were given quality seedlings and new farming equipment to get their crops going strong. As the seedlings grew, so did their hope for the future.

Training for Indonesian Chili Farmers

In addition to seeds and tools, you provided the farmers with training on how to nurture the crop to help improve the yield at harvest time. We also moved the gardening location of Mr. Radianus and the group to a secure spot, where the farmers could look out for each other.

A fresh start was exactly what Mr. Radianus needed. Now that he’s in a safer location, equipped with new tools and expanded knowledge, his crop flourished, and he reported that his income increased. He and the other farmers are planning to expand their crops soon.

Operation Blessing’s support of the farmers is one example of how you empower others through microenterprise. Everyone needs a little help sometimes, and we’re so grateful that you help make these miracles happen.

The Miracle of Giving Food… When Food Prices Are Soaring

VIRGINIA – “This is just a rough patch, and I know it’s passing,” said Zine from Virginia, trying to stay positive. That’s just who Zine is. But right now, times are tough. Food prices are soaring, and hard-working people like Zine are struggling to make ends meet. When money got tight, Zine was thankful to find relief through your love and support and the food pantry at Bethel Worship Center Church International, a ministry partner of Operation Blessing.

Twenty years ago, Zine moved from South Africa to the United States. Over time, she noticed others in need all around her and wanted to help, so she left a well-paying job as a delivery specialist to establish a group home in Virginia for people with mental disabilities. Even with a financial plan, she saw the COVID pandemic slow her progress and dwindle her reserve.

During this time, because of your support, she didn’t have the burden of paying for her own groceries weighing on her. Instead, she was able to focus on those in need. “I can devote my day to working in the business,” she said. “It just gives me a lot of peace.”

“There are a lot of needy families who need food.”

When Food Prices Are Soaring Needy Families Need YOU

Zine often picked up extra groceries for neighbors who were not able to travel to the food pantry and even brought back some cake for the children who lived next door. “There are a lot of needy families who need food,” she told us. “You get a lot of fresh food here, fresh vegetables and milk. This is really useful to someone who isn’t getting a lot of protein.”

Your generosity made all that possible. Thanks to you, Operation Blessing is able to provide food so that food pantries like this one and others across the country can continue providing groceries to Zine and many others.

“It’s bringing comfort,” said Sabrina, who runs the pantry at Bethel Worship Center Church with her mother. “The food makes a difference in the finances at home because they can comfortably make a decision to pay the light bill and not be hungry.” And the quality of the food you provide is something Sabrina says she would serve to her own family.

help when food prices are soaring due to inflation

“The money is going straight to the communities—people you see in the grocery store, people that you see at church, they are direct recipients of the donations,” Sabrina told us. “Seeing another human receiving something they need, it just gives me joy.”

The compassion her whole staff has for helping others pours over to the people they meet, including Zine. Every time Zine visited the food pantry, she felt your love in action. “When I look into the women and men’s eyes, I see the face of God.”

Today, Zine is working toward becoming financially independent and no longer needs assistance from the food pantry. She is doing what she loves—caring for others in her group home.

Senegal Microenterprise: A Pathway from Loss to Livelihood

SENEGAL – In Senegal, the journey from the grief to self-sufficiency was a testament of resilience and of your unwavering support. Astou and her sisters faced the unimaginable: the loss of both parents. This nightmare left them grappling with uncertainty and the looming threat of poverty. Yet, your support turned tragedy into triumph. Your kindness helped transform despair into a Senegal microenterprise that supports this family.

Chicken Rearing Microenterprise: Sustenance and Schooling

For Astou, the challenge was to take care of her sisters as she grieved. She felt overwhelmed by the responsibility. The family now had no choice but find a way to support themselves. Even before your helping hand, the sisters tried to support themselves. Their initial foray into entrepreneurship—harvesting baobab leaves and selling ice cream and juice—demonstrated their determination. However, despite their hard work, they could not make enough to live. Then hunger set in. But you were there to be a light to these young women. Your support of this microenterprise would help give them hope.

Battling Poverty in Senegal: The Role of Microenterprise

Now Astou and her sisters found themselves in a heart breaking situation. They were trying to survive but facing poverty and hunger at every turn. This type of nightmare can drain anyone of hope. But partners like you know the power of generosity and how it can help others overcome difficult circumstances.

Your support allowed Operation Blessing to help set up Astou’s chicken business. Because of you, Operation Blessing was able to provide the resources and training she needed. This simple act of generosity helped Astou battle poverty. The profits from this endeavor did more than just ensure food on their table; it reinstated hope and education into their lives. With earnings from the chicken business, all the sisters returned to school.

sengal microenterprise via a chicken business

Gratitude and Growth: The Impact of a Senegal Microenterprise

Today, Astou’s story is not just one of survival but of triumph. The support from the microenterprise program didn’t just alleviate their immediate needs, but equipped them with tools for a sustainable future. Astou sends you her gratitude. Thank you for your kindness and generosity. Please continue to help us help people support themselves.

hunger relief through a senegal microenterprise

Providing Water Tanks to Taiwan Earthquake Survivors

TAIWAN- The horrible earthquake that struck near Hualien, Taiwan, left a trail of destruction affecting many people. Among the hardest hit were the Taroko tribe, an aboriginal group living near the now-closed Taroko National Park. The quake not only damaged buildings and triggered landslides but also destroyed the water tanks that many families relied on for their daily water needs.

An Operation Blessing team on the ground quickly identified the urgent need for new water tanks among the Taiwan survivors in the Taroko community. Many families’ tanks were completely destroyed, leaving them without reliable access to clean water.

Mimi’s Story: Taiwan Survivors Struggling Without Water Tanks

Mimi, a 63-year-old grandmother and member of the Taroko tribe, shared her harrowing experience during the earthquake: “I didn’t know what to do because the ground kept shaking and the children were crying.” When her family returned home after fleeing for safety, they found their water tanks destroyed beyond repair.

For Mimi’s extended family of 20 people, a functioning water tank is essential for daily life. To make matters worse, many of her children worked in hotels located within Taroko National Park before it was forced to close due to earthquake damage. The loss of income has made it even more challenging for these Taiwan survivors to afford a new water tank on their own.

Donate Now to Support Relief Efforts

Providing Water Tanks to Taiwan Survivors Amid Local Shortages

As our team sought to provide replacements for the damaged water tanks, we encountered a new challenge: a shortage of water tanks at local hardware providers. But the support of friends like you enabled the team to keep going and work with local partners to secure a supplier and initiate the process of delivering new water tanks to Taiwan survivors like Mimi’s family.

Your Support Brings Hope to Taiwan Survivors

In the face of such devastating losses, your support can make a world of difference for Taiwan survivors like Mimi and her family.

Send Help to Survivors

Together, we can demonstrate God’s love and provision for Taiwan survivors during this challenging time. Thank you for considering a gift to support Operation Blessing’s mission to provide relief for disaster victims.

Aid for Taiwan Communities Devastated by Earthquake Damage

TAIWAN- Residents are in crisis after a massive earthquake struck off the Taiwan coast less than a week ago—damaging over 100 buildings, ruining critical infrastructure, and leaving hundreds injured.

Dozens remain trapped in the rubble fighting for their lives as rescuers work frantically to save them. Tragically, the crisis is far from over as powerful aftershocks—some as strong as magnitude 6.5—have continued to rattle the region and threatened to cause even more destruction.

Rapid Response to Deliver Critical Relief

In the aftermath of the disaster, Operation Blessing quickly mobilized to provide critical aid to the affected communities. Our teams on the ground are working closely with local partners to assess the needs of earthquake survivors and deliver assistance to those who need it most.

Donate Now to Support Relief Efforts

Focusing on the Most Vulnerable Amid Ongoing Threats

As violent aftershocks continue, Operation Blessing is focusing on reaching the most vulnerable populations impacted by the earthquake damage. This includes seniors and families in aboriginal villages where many homes were severely damaged or destroyed.

Operation Blessing staff are meeting with disaster management officials to coordinate relief efforts and ensure aid reaches those in desperate need. We are already purchasing emergency food supplies and other essential items for distribution to hard-hit communities.

Long-Term Commitment to Recovery and Restoration

While Taiwan’s strict building codes thankfully prevented an even greater catastrophe, the earthquake damage and impact have left many families reeling from the loss of their homes and livelihoods. The road to recovery will be long, but Operation Blessing is committed to walking alongside these communities.

Our teams are providing not only material support but also emotional care to those traumatized by the disaster. We know that rebuilding lives and communities takes time, and we are dedicated to being a source of hope and support for as long as it takes. Will you join us?

Send Help to Survivors

Ohio Tornado Survivor Shares His Heart

OHIO – A devastating tornado tore through communities in Wapakoneta, Ohio, leaving several homes destroyed. Displaced locals like veteran and widower Robert Williams felt blessed to be alive. Robert said, “I feel like it was a miracle, because, had I been home, I probably wouldn’t be sitting here now.”

“I can’t be thankful enough for everything you guys have done…Thank you. And I thank God for you.”

Surviving the Ohio Tornado

Robert shared the traumatic experience. “Well, I was laying on my bed, taking a nap, and something woke me up, made me feel like I should get out of my camper.” Though he narrowly escaped the tornado, when Robert came home, he found that the entire campground where he lived was destroyed. He said there were, “Campers thrown everywhere, debris everywhere, people’s personal belongings everywhere.”

Since Robert survived, he is beyond grateful and trying to trust God will turn this situation towards his good. “I believe God has a purpose for me, and that’s why I’m still here. I just believe he has a purpose for all of us.”

Friends Like You Were There for Him

Operation Blessing deployed the disaster relief team to Ohio to help those in need. With the generous support of friends like you, the team was able to give displaced families a place to stay in hotels and food to meet their daily needs.

Robert said, “I’m very grateful to Operation Blessing for giving me a place to stay and bringing me hot meals every day, offering me any care that I need from a place to stay to spiritual to mental. It’s just been a wonderful blessing. I can’t thank them enough.”

His conclusion was sobering: “I could be sleeping in my car, but instead I’m staying in a nice hotel room. I’m getting meals every day. I can’t be thankful enough for everything you guys have done, and I really appreciate it. Thank you.”

Responding to Devastating Taiwan Earthquake

TAIWAN- On April 3rd, a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck eastern Taiwan, causing widespread damage and loss of life. The Taiwan earthquake, which was the strongest to hit the area in 25 years, left at least 9 people dead and over 300 injured. As the people of Taiwan grapple with the aftermath of this disaster, Operation Blessing is responding to provide critical aid and support to those in need.

Powerful 7.4 Magnitude Taiwan Earthquake Devastates Region

The earthquake caused significant damage across the Hualien and Taitung regions, with buildings collapsed, roads and bridges damaged, and power outages affecting hundreds of thousands. According to CNBC, “Television showed buildings in the eastern city of Hualien shaken off their foundations. Islandwide train service was suspended, as was subway service in Taipei.”

Operation Blessing’s International Disaster Relief Team Deploys to Affected Areas

In the face of this devastation, Operation Blessing is sending its international disaster relief team to the affected areas to assess the damage and provide essential assistance. Our teams will work tirelessly to deliver critical supplies and resources to help earthquake survivors as they begin the long process of recovery.

Donate Now to Support Relief Efforts

Your Compassionate Support Can Make a Difference

Taiwan Vice President Lai Ching-te tweeted, “Our response efforts are in full swing to address the aftermath of today’s earthquake in Taiwan. The outpouring of global support is uplifting & deeply appreciated.” Operation Blessing is proud to help you join this global response, standing alongside the people of Taiwan in their time of need.

As a compassionate supporter, you can play a vital role in our relief efforts. Your generous donation will enable us to provide essential items to earthquake survivors. Together, we can be a lifeline to those who have lost so much and help them rebuild their lives.

Be a Lifeline to Those in Need

Feature photo used with permission from Creative Commons (source here).

Heart Surgery for Young Adrian

EL SALVADOR – In El Salvador, a young heart beats stronger now, thanks to your kindness that helped provide heart surgery to a young boy in need. Three-year-old Adrian’s story is a powerful testament to what kindness and dedication can accomplish.

Because he was born with a heart murmur, it was clear this young boy would face challenges. He had a hole in his heart. Sadly, his parents were faced with the terrifying reality that their son would need surgery. Without child heart surgery, their son could lose his battle with this risky and complicated condition. However, since they could not afford surgery, what could they do?

The Weight of a Heartbeat: Adrian’s Challenge

Adrian’s mother, Alexandra, recalls the overwhelming fear upon learning of her son’s condition. The financial difficulty to afford the much-needed surgery caused a constant heartache, casting a shadow of despair over the family. Adrian’s fatigue and rapidly racing heart were distressing signs of his struggle. Imagine if your child was sick and you knew they needed help. Now, imagine if you had no way to help them.

A Brother’s Prayer: Alejandro’s Hope for Adrian

As Adrian’s health hung in the balance, his older brother, Alejandro, turned to prayer. His innocent prayers were a moving plea for his brother’s healing. This is when you came along and made the difference. You became the hands and feet of Christ to give this family hope.

Operation Blessing: A Beacon of Hope After Child Heart Surgery in El Salvador

Hope arrived when Adrian was referred to a heart hospital, supported by Operation Blessing. Your commitment to helping sick children allowed Adrian to undergo the life-saving operation at no cost to his family. After surgery, life was very different for young Adrian. He emerged not only healthy, but also full of life. Think of the joy this brought to his family.

Your Generosity Is Reshaping Lives One Family at a Time

Today, Adrian plays without restraint, free from the heart problems that once threatened his life. His family’s gratitude knows no bounds. They marvel at the kindness YOU showed when you donated to make Adrian’s surgery possible. The success of Adrian’s surgery is a beacon of what you can do. It shows the positive impact of charitable giving on families facing the impossible choice between financial ruin and their child’s health.

healed from heart problems in El Salvador

Why Stop Now – Change the World One Step at a Time

The story of Adrian and his family is a reminder that helping even one child can impact the world. Think of all the prayers that you helped answer when you decided to be a blessing. You heard the call and you decided to change this young boy’s life for the better. Thank you for all you do! Help us continue to show families like Adrian’s the love of Christ by supporting these surgeries!

Making a Home with Help from New Friends During Hard Times

VIRGINIA – Hard times can prove challenging for any family, even more so for those who have recently relocated far away from their family and friends. That’s what Nicole and her husband, Oscar, discovered when they moved recently to Norfolk, Virginia. Since the move, finances have been tight for their small family. Oscar takes on whatever construction jobs he can find, and he’s pretty versatile. “I do everything I can,” he said, “from building a house to electrical. Everything.”

Nevertheless, Nicole told us, “It’s hard to make ends meet. After bills are paid, it’s hard to find the funds to get food.”

“It’s hard to make ends meet. After bills are paid, it’s hard to find the funds to get food.”

So she was delighted to hear about the food bank at nearby New Hope Christian Community Center, an Operation Blessing partner organization that you help keep supplied. She can’t say enough about what’s available through this outreach. “It’s good quality. There’s always a bunch of fruits and vegetables. There’s good meat, and even little snacks for my daughter. I’m never disappointed when I come in.”

Helping Families During Hard Times

The food you help provide has a profound impact on families facing hard times. Nicole says it’s “incredible” that friends like you are aiding people who need help. “It just makes the quality of life better. It helps us get through day by day.”

overcoming hard times in Norfolk Virginia

Critical partnerships like the one we have with New Hope allow us to deliver aid where and when it’s needed most—and make your thoughtful donations work as hard as possible. We’re told that recent reductions in government programs have led to a drastic increase in New Hope’s food recipients. Military families, single moms or dads, elderly couples, young adults, teenagers living on the street—all are welcome.

Nicole wishes more people knew about this outreach. “It means everything just to be able to provide and feed our children and ourselves. Thank you so much. … You all are doing incredible work!” As a cherished partner, your kindness and compassion are making a world of difference— whether you’re feeding hungry families on the other side of the globe, or right here at home.