Christian Charity - Making a Difference in Some of the Poorest Parts of the World

In many parts of the world, people struggle to survive without even the most basic necessities. They have little or no food or shelter, contaminated drinking water, and no access to medical care. Sadly, millions die every year because of sheer, brutal poverty. Too many of these are children, who are the most vulnerable to the ravages of starvation and disease.

According to UNICEF, 1.4 million children die annually from illnesses caused by lack of safe drinking water and basic sanitation. More than 2 million children die every year because they are not immunized against preventable diseases. Overall, nearly half of the world's 2.2 billion children live in poverty to some degree. The areas where children are most in need include Ethiopia, Rwanda and Uganda in Africa; India and the Philippines in Asia; Haiti and Honduras in Central America and the Caribbean; and Ecuador and Bolivia in South America.

Some children in poverty suffer due to war or drought. Others are victims of disease, including the AIDS pandemic. Then there are children who have lost their homes and families because of a sudden, terrible upheaval like the earthquake in Haiti. All are affected by disasters that are no fault of their own. Many children also face abuse and exploitation. They all desperately need to know they are not alone or forgotten.

Thankfully, a number of caring Christian charities travel to the world's poorest countries to offer both practical assistance and solace. They follow the teachings of Jesus Christ, to love thy neighbor and to "help the least of thy brethren." In their work, they have the generous support of millions of church groups and individuals from across the Western world. These charities are dedicated to helping those most in need regardless of the conditions they find themselves in. While some are geared to providing emergency assistance, others offer more long-term solutions.

All such Christian charities contribute toward making a difference in some of the poorest parts of the world. What's important is that they do their work with integrity and responsibility. Their supporters and the poverty-stricken children they pledge to help deserve nothing less.

Examples of Christian charity projects with proven, lasting benefits in poor communities include building wells to provide clean water, and building schools and hospitals. It is impossible to understate the value of medical workers and teachers in camps and villages and the specialized equipment they need.

Doctors, nurses and health workers not only help save the sick, they also help prevent deaths through immunization programs. Teachers provide education that brings real hope to children in poor communities.

Social projects initiated by Christian charities can make a difference in a community as well. Women in particular suffer disrespect and ill treatment in many impoverished countries. Christian charities often work to foster fair treatment of women and children.

Another effective long-term program involves sponsorship of individual children, ensuring that they have not only basic necessities, but a "hand of friendship" stretching across the world. A real bond grows between sponsor and child as they exchange letters, photos and news. Love and compassion in all ways are the watchwords, and the best Christian charities pledge to provide spiritual nourishment as well as material assistance. Through their efforts, they make an immense difference in the lives of the world's poorest, restoring hope above all else.