In the densely populated Kanyama slum just outside Lusaka, Zambia, there are thousands and thousands of orphaned children.
Lack of drainage and sanitation results in rampant spread of disease - Cholera and Malaria to name just two. Sexual promiscuity leads to HIV/AIDS, other STDs, and low life expectancy.
Lack of drainage and sanitation results in rampant spread of disease.
The poverty is devastating, and many simply don’t have food to eat.
ITMI partner, Reverend John Jere is moved by compassion for the orphans and the widows in these slums, as their situation is even worse. As resources come in, John and his team deliver food to the slums.
The needs are overwhelming. This is just one slum among many.
John says, “We can only serve in some areas. When God provides, we reach out with the Gospel of Jesus Christ...and also remember to ‘visit the fatherless and the widows in their affliction.’ ”
It may seem like a hopeless cause. A drop in the bucket.
But when each drop represents a full stomach where there was suffering before, it matters.
It’s a tangible show of God’s love and concern for the poor. It’s a demonstration of the Gospel.
God doesn’t call us to fill the bucket. He doesn’t expect us to end poverty. He calls us to be faithful with what He provides, one drop at a time.
Want to help John feed the hungry in Zambia?
Summer Kelley is a writer who lives in Phoenix, Arizona with her husband and three kids. She has had the privilege of telling ITMI's stories since 2006.
Steve Evers has advocated for and served the ITMI partners as ITMI Director since 2001. Approximately once a year, Steve visits with ITMI partners in their countries and brings stories back to encourage supporters. Steve enjoys photography and mechanics, (both hobbies that have greatly benefited ITMI partners!) Prior to becoming ITMI's Director, Steve served on the Board of Directors for 12 years. Steve lives in Arizona with his wife, Darlene.