‘Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.’ – Matthew 10:31
In the most vulnerable communities, food security remains a serious issue. In Mozambique, many people face starvation between November and February of each harvest season when their food supply runs out. In other countries, lack of employment, limited supply, and neglect also contribute to shortages for those in need. This year Malawi is facing a hunger season after serious floods last year. Ask God to provide this most basic essential for His people. Thank Him for the Care Workers who daily cook a hot, nutritious meal for the children they care for. Consider those people in your own country who also struggle with food security, and ask God to pour out grace on them, too.
15-year-old Wema* lives with her mother and four siblings in the community of Mcheneke, Malawi. Her father passed away in 2002 when Wema was just 2 years old. The family faced many struggles after her father’s death; life was not easy for a single mother raising 4 young children. Despite her best efforts, Wema’s mother struggled to provide for her family’s most basic needs such as food, clothing and secure housing. She relies on odd jobs around the community as income. Like many families in Malawi, food security continues to be one of their greatest challenges. In 2015, Malawi experienced a drought which yielded poor harvest and left many unsure of where their next meal would come from.
In January 2014, when Care Workers from Umodzi Community Based Organisation (CBO) in Mcheneke learned of Wema’s story, it was apparent she was among the most vulnerable children in the community. Hilda, a dedicated volunteer from the local church, understood the calling on her life from James 1:27: “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” She was committed to caring for Wema and her family, visiting them in their home regularly and gaining an understanding of not only Wema’s physical needs, but her emotional and spiritual needs also.
During Hilda’s visits, a strong relationship is being forged. Hilda shares promises and encouragement from scripture and prays with Wema and her family, showing them the love of their Heavenly Father. The change in Wema’s life is visible. She attends grade 7 at the local government school where she works hard and does well with her studies. At the Care Point where Wema and 199 other children receive a hot, nutritious meal every day, she is often found playing with her friends or helping out with the younger children. Wema and her family still face many daily struggles, but with the support of Hilda and the Umodzi Care Workers, they do not have to face them alone.