Samaritan's Purse https://www.samaritanspurse.org News Wed, 04 Mar 2026 14:42:50 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://users.feedblitz.com/ec17766dabfb882064cc1903e3224114/SP-logo.jpg Samaritan's Purse https://www.samaritanspurse.org https://www.samaritanspurse.org/article/serving-hungry-and-heartbroken-families-in-jesus-name/ Serving Hungry and Heartbroken Families in Jesus’ Name https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/949496000/0/samaritanspurse~Serving-Hungry-and-Heartbroken-Families-in-Jesus%e2%80%99-Name/ Wed, 04 Mar 2026 14:42:50 +0000 https://www.samaritanspurse.org/?post_type=sp-articles&p=268812 Mothers in Gety attend Samaritan's Purse health and nutrition screenings and training events. Our teams help prevent and treat acute malnutrition.Sarah never imagined she’d be left alone to raise six children or watch her 16-month-old son, Michael, weaken from lack of food. As he grew listless and continued to lose weight, his 38-year-old mother prayed for help to come. Being left by a husband for a second wife broke Sarah’s heart and left her economically stranded in the conflict-crippled Congolese community of Gety. Provisions were scarce in Ituri province and there were few opportunities to support her family. A community health worker quickly diagnosed Michael during a visit to the family’s home. His acute malnutrition, caused by a diet deficient of essential vitamins and minerals, is a life-threatening condition that impacts many families in the region. He was immediately sent for further monitoring, medication, and daily servings of fortified milk at a local health center supported by the Samaritan’s Purse health and nutrition program. “During my stay at the hospital, Samaritan’s Purse provided us with food,” Sarah said, recounting their week at the facility where she watched Michael improve every day. Sarah also met with Samaritan’s Purse chaplains who visited her daily to encourage her from the Word of God and remind her of God’s presence in her suffering. Speaking of one of them, she said, “He told me about Jesus’ love for me in all of life’s circumstances.” During the early and late hours of each day, Sarah feared for her future and grieved her husband’s betrayal. The chaplains had encouraged to trust, in those moments, that the Lord will never abandon her, even if her husband did. Even after hospital staff released Michael to continue treatments at home, the mother and son returned to the facility often for regular checkups. With each visit, Michael was stronger in body, and Sarah was stronger in her faith that God provides. “Now my son is doing well and playing with his friends. Glory be to God,” Sarah said. “I thank God for my son and for the prayer and encouragement during our stay at the hospital. I am continuing to trust God. Glory be to God.” Through Samaritan’s Purse health and nutrition programs, children like Michael are receiving critical medical care in a region where conflict has deepened hunger and hardship. At the same time, mothers like Sarah are hearing the Gospel and being reminded that they are not alone. Please pray for families in northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo who are struggling to find food and suffering from ongoing conflict in Ituri Province. Pray that God would continue to use Samaritan’s Purse to bring both physical healing and the hope of Christ to those in desperate need. ]]> Mothers in Gety attend Samaritan's Purse health and nutrition screenings and training events. Our teams help prevent and treat acute malnutrition.Sarah never imagined she’d be left alone to raise six children or watch her 16-month-old son, Michael, weaken from lack of food. As he grew listless and continued to lose weight, his 38-year-old mother prayed for help to come. Being left by a husband for a second wife broke Sarah’s heart and left her economically stranded in the conflict-crippled Congolese community of Gety. Provisions were scarce in Ituri province and there were few opportunities to support her family. A community health worker quickly diagnosed Michael during a visit to the family’s home. His acute malnutrition, caused by a diet deficient of essential vitamins and minerals, is a life-threatening condition that impacts many families in the region. He was immediately sent for further monitoring, medication, and daily servings of fortified milk at a local health center supported by the Samaritan’s Purse health and nutrition program. “During my stay at the hospital, Samaritan’s Purse provided us with food,” Sarah said, recounting their week at the facility where she watched Michael improve every day. Sarah also met with Samaritan’s Purse chaplains who visited her daily to encourage her from the Word of God and remind her of God’s presence in her suffering. Speaking of one of them, she said, “He told me about Jesus’ love for me in all of life’s circumstances.” During the early and late hours of each day, Sarah feared for her future and grieved her husband’s betrayal. The chaplains had encouraged to trust, in those moments, that the Lord will never abandon her, even if her husband did. Even after hospital staff released Michael to continue treatments at home, the mother and son returned to the facility often for regular checkups. With each visit, Michael was stronger in body, and Sarah was stronger in her faith that God provides. “Now my son is doing well and playing with his friends. Glory be to God,” Sarah said. “I thank God for my son and for the prayer and encouragement during our stay at the hospital. I am continuing to trust God. Glory be to God.” Through Samaritan’s Purse health and nutrition programs, children like Michael are receiving critical medical care in a region where conflict has deepened hunger and hardship. At the same time, mothers like Sarah are hearing the Gospel and being reminded that they are not alone. Please pray for families in northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo who are struggling to find food and suffering from ongoing conflict in Ituri Province. Pray that God would continue to use Samaritan’s Purse to bring both physical healing and the hope of Christ to those in desperate need. ]]> https://www.samaritanspurse.org/article/clean-water-helps-change-lives-in-haiti/ Clean Water Helps Change Lives in Haiti https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/949381430/0/samaritanspurse~Clean-Water-Helps-Change-Lives-in-Haiti/ Tue, 03 Mar 2026 13:35:54 +0000 https://samaritanspurse.org/?post_type=sp-articles&p=268621 Haitians crowding around a water delivery pointA grandmother has lived most of her life in northern Haiti without access to a toilet. When needed, she had to hide behind a bush or squat in an empty field. The five grandchildren who live with her have had to do the same. Continually anxious about privacy, security, and hygiene, the grandmother was elated when she found out that her community was one of four in the region where Samaritan’s Purse would conduct a household latrine and handwashing station project. She hired a manual laborer to dig a latrine pit, gathered sand and gravel, and cooked meals for the masons working on her latrine. We provided the remaining materials, covered labor costs, and supervised construction through our Haiti Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) team. Now her family has the sanitation facilities she desired. “Thanks to Samaritan’s Purse, my dignity is restored.” “Not having a latrine at my age made me feel unvalued, vulnerable, and exposed to all kinds of danger,” the grandmother said. “Thanks to Samaritan’s Purse, my dignity is restored.” A Precious Gift In another community in northern Haiti, people had to walk long distances to find safe drinking water. More than 3,000 residents depended on a single, seasonal borehole and a distant spring. But when the dry season arrived each year, both sources often failed to produce enough water. It left the community, including a public market that draws nearly 8,000 people from the surrounding area each week, with few safe alternatives for water. In response, our in-country WASH team established a borehole and a solar-powered water kiosk in the community. The team recruited and trained a local water management committee to maintain the water system. We also encouraged local Christian leaders to form a group to address community needs, providing leadership training through our church mobilization program. "This water project is a miracle. It is proof that God has not abandoned us." “This water project is a miracle,” said the president of the pastors’ group. “It is proof that God has not abandoned us. God used Samaritan’s Purse to bless us with such a precious gift—the gift of life.” In western Haiti, a community of 3,300 people had longstanding difficulty accessing clean water. Though they were located near a river, the water wasn’t safe to drink. In 2016, the area was hit hard by an outbreak of cholera, which can spread through contaminated water. There is no bridge across the fast-flowing river, inhibiting access to the area. Community members hauled rocks, bamboo, and wood to the river to build makeshift supports for water supply equipment we arranged to be transported there. We provided the equipment, supplies, and labor needed to drill a borehole and construct a solar-powered water kiosk with tap stands. We also established and trained a local water management board to oversee the water system. “I was constantly sick from drinking river water,” said a resident. “Since the water system was built, I haven’t been sick again. The water is fresh, clean, and tastes good.” Near the capital city of Port-au-Prince, Samaritan’s Purse partnered with a local congregation to set up a solar-powered water kiosk using an existing abandoned borehole, improving access to safe drinking water for many people in the area. They access the clean water through a chlorinator managed by a local water management group trained by Samaritan’s Purse. “This water project is like God coming from Heaven to relieve the suffering of the people.” “This water project is like God coming from Heaven to relieve the suffering of the people,” said our ministry partner. Samaritan’s Purse has water, sanitation, and hygiene projects around the world that provide clean water and promote safe hygiene practices—all while sharing God’s love and the truth of the Gospel. From drilling community wells to distributing household water filters, we partner with local churches and families to develop water sources, prevent the spread of disease, and proclaim Jesus Christ as the living water (John 7:38).
     

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]]> Haitians crowding around a water delivery pointA grandmother has lived most of her life in northern Haiti without access to a toilet. When needed, she had to hide behind a bush or squat in an empty field. The five grandchildren who live with her have had to do the same. Continually anxious about privacy, security, and hygiene, the grandmother was elated when she found out that her community was one of four in the region where Samaritan’s Purse would conduct a household latrine and handwashing station project. She hired a manual laborer to dig a latrine pit, gathered sand and gravel, and cooked meals for the masons working on her latrine. We provided the remaining materials, covered labor costs, and supervised construction through our Haiti Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) team. Now her family has the sanitation facilities she desired. “Thanks to Samaritan’s Purse, my dignity is restored.” “Not having a latrine at my age made me feel unvalued, vulnerable, and exposed to all kinds of danger,” the grandmother said. “Thanks to Samaritan’s Purse, my dignity is restored.” A Precious Gift In another community in northern Haiti, people had to walk long distances to find safe drinking water. More than 3,000 residents depended on a single, seasonal borehole and a distant spring. But when the dry season arrived each year, both sources often failed to produce enough water. It left the community, including a public market that draws nearly 8,000 people from the surrounding area each week, with few safe alternatives for water. In response, our in-country WASH team established a borehole and a solar-powered water kiosk in the community. The team recruited and trained a local water management committee to maintain the water system. We also encouraged local Christian leaders to form a group to address community needs, providing leadership training through our church mobilization program. "This water project is a miracle. It is proof that God has not abandoned us." “This water project is a miracle,” said the president of the pastors’ group. “It is proof that God has not abandoned us. God used Samaritan’s Purse to bless us with such a precious gift—the gift of life.” In western Haiti, a community of 3,300 people had longstanding difficulty accessing clean water. Though they were located near a river, the water wasn’t safe to drink. In 2016, the area was hit hard by an outbreak of cholera, which can spread through contaminated water. There is no bridge across the fast-flowing river, inhibiting access to the area. Community members hauled rocks, bamboo, and wood to the river to build makeshift supports for water supply equipment we arranged to be transported there. We provided the equipment, supplies, and labor needed to drill a borehole and construct a solar-powered water kiosk with tap stands. We also established and trained a local water management board to oversee the water system. “I was constantly sick from drinking river water,” said a resident. “Since the water system was built, I haven’t been sick again. The water is fresh, clean, and tastes good.” Near the capital city of Port-au-Prince, Samaritan’s Purse partnered with a local congregation to set up a solar-powered water kiosk using an existing abandoned borehole, improving access to safe drinking water for many people in the area. They access the clean water through a chlorinator managed by a local water management group trained by Samaritan’s Purse. “This water project is like God coming from Heaven to relieve the suffering of the people.” “This water project is like God coming from Heaven to relieve the suffering of the people,” said our ministry partner. Samaritan’s Purse has water, sanitation, and hygiene projects around the world that provide clean water and promote safe hygiene practices—all while sharing God’s love and the truth of the Gospel. From drilling community wells to distributing household water filters, we partner with local churches and families to develop water sources, prevent the spread of disease, and proclaim Jesus Christ as the living water (John 7:38).
     

Related Stories

 
]]> https://www.samaritanspurse.org/article/god-used-a-mess-to-be-his-message/ God Used a Mess to Be His Message https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/948686903/0/samaritanspurse~God-Used-a-Mess-to-Be-His-Message/ Fri, 27 Feb 2026 12:45:37 +0000 https://samaritanspurse.org/?post_type=sp-articles&p=268473 Cambodian volunteer with Cambodian Bible given to graduates of The Greatest JourneyWhen Sovann* was a child there was nothing but hopelessness in her life. She made a promise to herself that when she grew up, she would be a person who would listen to young people, and be a mentor. That passion and promise has led her to where she is today as a team coordinator with Operation Christmas Child in Cambodia. “The reason I wanted to be involved with Operation Christmas Child is that I carry this burden for young people,” Sovann said. Since 2000, more than 1.6 million of her nation’s children have received a gift-filled Operation Christmas Child shoebox and had the opportunity to hear the Good News of Jesus Christ. “They not only receive the shoebox, but they receive love. They can touch love. They can feel who Jesus is,” Sovann said. The children she’s serving have been taught since birth that they need to honor and worship things other than Jesus. They’re often skeptical of Christians at first but overtime she says they come to realize that this team isn’t just pretending to have care and compassion. “Christ, in the Bible, said to love one another as our own self. So, we love them. We just come to share love. We come to share Christ. We represent Christ,” Sovann said. “They listen to the story of Christ and they long to know more about Him.” Overcoming Cultural Objections to Christianity Her heart is full of joy watching as boys and girls who received shoebox gifts go on to graduate from The Greatest Journey discipleship course with a brand-new Bible in their hands. Equipped with 12 interactive Bible lessons on how to follow Christ and share Him with others, their experience is so very different from her own childhood. “When I was young, a rumor said, if you believe in Jesus, you need to hate your parents. And I really hated Christianity and I said that if one day I became prime minister, I would remove all the Christianity from my country,” Sovann said. But God radically transformed her perspective 24 years ago, when He brought her into a job at a Christian library where she could no longer outrun His love. “Christ met me personally and he changed my life from a hopeless lady so full of fear,” Sovann said. “I'm coming to share my messy life and be His message to the young kids. Maybe I cannot change all of Cambodia, but I said to the Lord, ‘Can I be the one that plants your seed in people's lives? Then they can carry your seed to other people.’” So many of these kids have stories similar to hers, growing up in homes that teach them if they follow Christ they will be shunned by their families. Because she understands in a way others often don’t, she finds that her students readily unburden themselves to her. “My story has become their encouragement, inspiring and helping them and I encourage them to see how God used this mess to be His message.” Sovann said. “I pray with them and I carry them along. Now they've grown up and so has that seed that has been planted in them. And now I see those kids that I shared with have become leaders who share Christ.” Encouraging a New Generation to Endure in Faith She knows this is not a battle for one life, but for generations. When these children make a choice for Christ, their families are changed forevermore. “To see the kids coming to Christ, they are the hope of Cambodia. They are the hope of the church,” Sovann said. Sovann remembers well how the life of one particular student was changed by the Scripture lessons in the The Greatest Journey. “Now she's free because of the power of the Lord. Jesus Christ is the truth. And when you share the truth to them, the truth sets them free,” Sovann said. The faith of these children stands in stark contrast to the world around them. In the streets of Cambodia, they’re never far from a temple, and constantly surrounded by signs of idolatry. Yet the environment doesn’t squelch their boldness. They have been set free because of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and now they share their faith with their parents and friends. “This testimony is a joy for me to see. They should be hopeless because of the world. But instead, now they have hope. They're happy and they want to share this happiness with their friends,” Sovann said. “They share Jesus because it's the miracle of their own life.” *Name changed for security ]]> Cambodian volunteer with Cambodian Bible given to graduates of The Greatest JourneyWhen Sovann* was a child there was nothing but hopelessness in her life. She made a promise to herself that when she grew up, she would be a person who would listen to young people, and be a mentor. That passion and promise has led her to where she is today as a team coordinator with Operation Christmas Child in Cambodia. “The reason I wanted to be involved with Operation Christmas Child is that I carry this burden for young people,” Sovann said. Since 2000, more than 1.6 million of her nation’s children have received a gift-filled Operation Christmas Child shoebox and had the opportunity to hear the Good News of Jesus Christ. “They not only receive the shoebox, but they receive love. They can touch love. They can feel who Jesus is,” Sovann said. The children she’s serving have been taught since birth that they need to honor and worship things other than Jesus. They’re often skeptical of Christians at first but overtime she says they come to realize that this team isn’t just pretending to have care and compassion. “Christ, in the Bible, said to love one another as our own self. So, we love them. We just come to share love. We come to share Christ. We represent Christ,” Sovann said. “They listen to the story of Christ and they long to know more about Him.” Overcoming Cultural Objections to Christianity Her heart is full of joy watching as boys and girls who received shoebox gifts go on to graduate from The Greatest Journey discipleship course with a brand-new Bible in their hands. Equipped with 12 interactive Bible lessons on how to follow Christ and share Him with others, their experience is so very different from her own childhood. “When I was young, a rumor said, if you believe in Jesus, you need to hate your parents. And I really hated Christianity and I said that if one day I became prime minister, I would remove all the Christianity from my country,” Sovann said. But God radically transformed her perspective 24 years ago, when He brought her into a job at a Christian library where she could no longer outrun His love. “Christ met me personally and he changed my life from a hopeless lady so full of fear,” Sovann said. “I'm coming to share my messy life and be His message to the young kids. Maybe I cannot change all of Cambodia, but I said to the Lord, ‘Can I be the one that plants your seed in people's lives? Then they can carry your seed to other people.’” So many of these kids have stories similar to hers, growing up in homes that teach them if they follow Christ they will be shunned by their families. Because she understands in a way others often don’t, she finds that her students readily unburden themselves to her. “My story has become their encouragement, inspiring and helping them and I encourage them to see how God used this mess to be His message.” Sovann said. “I pray with them and I carry them along. Now they've grown up and so has that seed that has been planted in them. And now I see those kids that I shared with have become leaders who share Christ.” Encouraging a New Generation to Endure in Faith She knows this is not a battle for one life, but for generations. When these children make a choice for Christ, their families are changed forevermore. “To see the kids coming to Christ, they are the hope of Cambodia. They are the hope of the church,” Sovann said. Sovann remembers well how the life of one particular student was changed by the Scripture lessons in the The Greatest Journey. “Now she's free because of the power of the Lord. Jesus Christ is the truth. And when you share the truth to them, the truth sets them free,” Sovann said. The faith of these children stands in stark contrast to the world around them. In the streets of Cambodia, they’re never far from a temple, and constantly surrounded by signs of idolatry. Yet the environment doesn’t squelch their boldness. They have been set free because of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and now they share their faith with their parents and friends. “This testimony is a joy for me to see. They should be hopeless because of the world. But instead, now they have hope. They're happy and they want to share this happiness with their friends,” Sovann said. “They share Jesus because it's the miracle of their own life.” *Name changed for security ]]> https://www.samaritanspurse.org/article/livestock-brings-hope-for-families-in-kenya/ Livestock Bring Hope for Families in Kenya https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/948569363/0/samaritanspurse~Livestock-Bring-Hope-for-Families-in-Kenya/ Thu, 26 Feb 2026 13:30:16 +0000 https://samaritanspurse.org/?post_type=sp-articles&p=268794 Martin family with goatsAs an ongoing drought plagued his rural village of Thakaye, Kenya, Martin* struggled to put food on the table for his wife and three children. There were limited economic opportunities in the area, and all of his livestock had died from disease. While he attempted to cultivate a small vegetable garden, he had only excess wastewater to give to the few plants that had sprouted. Just when it seemed like all hope was lost, Samaritan’s Purse came to his suffering village, offering help in Jesus’ Name. Soon, Martin was able to breathe a sigh of relief. Through our livelihood program, Martin received six high-quality Galla goats—five does and a buck for breeding. He also participated in livestock training, where he learned how to care for the new farm animals and construct a raised goat pen to house them. His wife, Joanna*, has also tended the flock, giving Martin time to pursue earth brickmaking as another source of income. “I no longer struggle to get by. I have become an inspiration for my family and the entire community.” In addition to now enjoying protein-rich milk, Martin is excited for the economic opportunities the goats offer. Once they produce offspring, the family will be able to sell them and use the funds to help their children get a quality education. Martin, a Christian pastor, sees the goats as a ministry opportunity with his neighbors as well. He has shared what he learned through our goat husbandry training with them and has offered his male goat for breeding. “The respect I have earned in this community and the love I experience at home constantly remind me of the positive impact Samaritan’s Purse has had on my life,” Martin said. “I no longer struggle to get by. I have become an inspiration for my family and the entire community.” Shelter for a Growing Church In addition to providing for his family, Martin feels the weight of tending to the needs of the church he pastors. Located in a neighboring village called Makutano, the congregation formerly met under a tree, providing limited protection from the blistering sun. Martin praised God when Samaritan’s Purse offered to build a roof for the congregation’s meeting place. We also provided Bibles and hymnals, aiding the congregation in their weekly Bible study, prayer meetings, and worship services. Since the additions, the church has grown from 30 members to over 70 as more people continue to find comfort and strength in their faith. Martin has also been greatly encouraged by the villagers’ response to several screenings of the JESUS film, organized by Samaritan’s Purse staff members. Because it was shown in Swahili, he provided live narration in the local Giryama language, helping viewers better understand and relate to the message. Martin was encouraged to see God use the movie to transform lives; many new believers began their walk with Jesus Christ. The experience has given him renewed passion for evangelism. “On one occasion, I witnessed a neighbor dedicate her life to Jesus after watching the film,” he said. “The joy and hope in that moment deeply reinforced my calling to share God's Word.” We praise God that Martin can now shepherd not only his goats—which provide for his family—but also better shepherd his community as they seek the Lord. “Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert” (Isaiah 43:19). *Name changed for security ]]> Martin family with goatsAs an ongoing drought plagued his rural village of Thakaye, Kenya, Martin* struggled to put food on the table for his wife and three children. There were limited economic opportunities in the area, and all of his livestock had died from disease. While he attempted to cultivate a small vegetable garden, he had only excess wastewater to give to the few plants that had sprouted. Just when it seemed like all hope was lost, Samaritan’s Purse came to his suffering village, offering help in Jesus’ Name. Soon, Martin was able to breathe a sigh of relief. Through our livelihood program, Martin received six high-quality Galla goats—five does and a buck for breeding. He also participated in livestock training, where he learned how to care for the new farm animals and construct a raised goat pen to house them. His wife, Joanna*, has also tended the flock, giving Martin time to pursue earth brickmaking as another source of income. “I no longer struggle to get by. I have become an inspiration for my family and the entire community.” In addition to now enjoying protein-rich milk, Martin is excited for the economic opportunities the goats offer. Once they produce offspring, the family will be able to sell them and use the funds to help their children get a quality education. Martin, a Christian pastor, sees the goats as a ministry opportunity with his neighbors as well. He has shared what he learned through our goat husbandry training with them and has offered his male goat for breeding. “The respect I have earned in this community and the love I experience at home constantly remind me of the positive impact Samaritan’s Purse has had on my life,” Martin said. “I no longer struggle to get by. I have become an inspiration for my family and the entire community.” Shelter for a Growing Church In addition to providing for his family, Martin feels the weight of tending to the needs of the church he pastors. Located in a neighboring village called Makutano, the congregation formerly met under a tree, providing limited protection from the blistering sun. Martin praised God when Samaritan’s Purse offered to build a roof for the congregation’s meeting place. We also provided Bibles and hymnals, aiding the congregation in their weekly Bible study, prayer meetings, and worship services. Since the additions, the church has grown from 30 members to over 70 as more people continue to find comfort and strength in their faith. Martin has also been greatly encouraged by the villagers’ response to several screenings of the JESUS film, organized by Samaritan’s Purse staff members. Because it was shown in Swahili, he provided live narration in the local Giryama language, helping viewers better understand and relate to the message. Martin was encouraged to see God use the movie to transform lives; many new believers began their walk with Jesus Christ. The experience has given him renewed passion for evangelism. “On one occasion, I witnessed a neighbor dedicate her life to Jesus after watching the film,” he said. “The joy and hope in that moment deeply reinforced my calling to share God's Word.” We praise God that Martin can now shepherd not only his goats—which provide for his family—but also better shepherd his community as they seek the Lord. “Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert” (Isaiah 43:19). *Name changed for security ]]> https://www.samaritanspurse.org/our-ministry/march26/ Franklin Graham’s March Update https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/947889380/0/samaritanspurse~Franklin-Grahams-March-Update/ Tue, 24 Feb 2026 15:06:55 +0000 https://www.samaritanspurse.org/?post_type=sp-articles&p=268737 ]]> ]]> https://www.samaritanspurse.org/article/meeting-urgent-needs-in-ukraine-as-fighting-continues/ Meeting Urgent Needs in Ukraine as Fighting Continues https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/948303458/0/samaritanspurse~Meeting-Urgent-Needs-in-Ukraine-as-Fighting-Continues/ Mon, 23 Feb 2026 13:06:54 +0000 https://samaritanspurse.org/?post_type=sp-articles&p=268683 Yana and her daughter with a bag of groceries from Samaritan's Purse“Should I buy medicine or water today?” Hanna* wrestled with this difficult question each day after the conflict in southern Ukraine destroyed her freshwater supply. When the nearby reservoir was damaged, her whole community was left with water shortages. “In the past, we just opened the tap and had clean water. Now, every drop is precious, and I have to think carefully about how to use it,” she said. Water is available for purchase at a high cost, but 73-year-old Hanna and many of her fellow Ukrainians live on limited pensions that place that out of reach. Seeking to help relieve their suffering, Samaritan’s Purse worked with an area church and drilled a borehole on their property. We also installed a water purification system onsite to provide an abundance of clear, fresh water. The congregation quickly promoted the free water distribution point, so members of the community could come to the church to gather the life-giving resource while hearing about Jesus, the Source of living water. Hanna now visits the church each day to obtain water for herself as well as her extended family and elderly neighbors who cannot get out. For her, the aid is not only meeting a practical need, but also a spiritual one. “Every time I fill our containers, I feel a wave of relief and thankfulness,” Hanna said. “It reminds me that God is with us and works through people who help others selflessly. “The water is a sign of hope. It shows that even in these dark times, compassion, faith, and mercy are stronger than conflict. It’s a reminder that we are not forgotten.” Food Fosters Hope God used bags of groceries from Samaritan’s Purse to increase hope for Yana* and her family. Displaced from far eastern Ukraine, they had lost all their belongings when their apartment was destroyed in the conflict. The young family worked to rebuild their lives in a new city in southern Ukraine, only to have Yana lose her job. This blow left Yana overwhelmed and exhausted. But as a Christian and a mother, she chose to persevere. “I had no right to give up,” she said. “For my child, I needed to hold on to faith and hope.” Yana clung to God in prayer and connected with neighbors and friends to help her combat loneliness. Along the way, the Lord answered her prayer for new employment. During these uncertain times, she received a Samaritan’s Purse food kit brimming with pasta, oatmeal, wheat flour, buckwheat, split peas, porridge, corn meal, cooking oil, and canned meat and beans. “I appreciated the quality of the kit and the contents,” Yana said. “My daughter especially enjoyed the chicken with pasta! Thank you very much. Receiving help is always important, and even more so in these difficult times. It fills us with hope for a better future.” But this food did even more than fill their aching, empty stomachs. Like Hanna, Yana said this relief showed her a glimpse of God’s love and how He works through people. She thanks the Lord for sustaining and watching over her, in part through the generosity of Samaritan’s Purse and its partners. “I believe that my faith in Christ protects me from falling into despair,” Yana said. “It helps me accept challenges and move forward into a new life.” Since the start of the conflict, Samaritan’s Purse has partnered with hundreds of Ukrainian churches to deliver over 285 million pounds of food and 33 million gallons of water to desperate residents. Please pray for our staff and partners to continue to faithfully proclaim the hope of Christ to those who are suffering. *Name changed for security ]]> Yana and her daughter with a bag of groceries from Samaritan's Purse“Should I buy medicine or water today?” Hanna* wrestled with this difficult question each day after the conflict in southern Ukraine destroyed her freshwater supply. When the nearby reservoir was damaged, her whole community was left with water shortages. “In the past, we just opened the tap and had clean water. Now, every drop is precious, and I have to think carefully about how to use it,” she said. Water is available for purchase at a high cost, but 73-year-old Hanna and many of her fellow Ukrainians live on limited pensions that place that out of reach. Seeking to help relieve their suffering, Samaritan’s Purse worked with an area church and drilled a borehole on their property. We also installed a water purification system onsite to provide an abundance of clear, fresh water. The congregation quickly promoted the free water distribution point, so members of the community could come to the church to gather the life-giving resource while hearing about Jesus, the Source of living water. Hanna now visits the church each day to obtain water for herself as well as her extended family and elderly neighbors who cannot get out. For her, the aid is not only meeting a practical need, but also a spiritual one. “Every time I fill our containers, I feel a wave of relief and thankfulness,” Hanna said. “It reminds me that God is with us and works through people who help others selflessly. “The water is a sign of hope. It shows that even in these dark times, compassion, faith, and mercy are stronger than conflict. It’s a reminder that we are not forgotten.” Food Fosters Hope God used bags of groceries from Samaritan’s Purse to increase hope for Yana* and her family. Displaced from far eastern Ukraine, they had lost all their belongings when their apartment was destroyed in the conflict. The young family worked to rebuild their lives in a new city in southern Ukraine, only to have Yana lose her job. This blow left Yana overwhelmed and exhausted. But as a Christian and a mother, she chose to persevere. “I had no right to give up,” she said. “For my child, I needed to hold on to faith and hope.” Yana clung to God in prayer and connected with neighbors and friends to help her combat loneliness. Along the way, the Lord answered her prayer for new employment. During these uncertain times, she received a Samaritan’s Purse food kit brimming with pasta, oatmeal, wheat flour, buckwheat, split peas, porridge, corn meal, cooking oil, and canned meat and beans. “I appreciated the quality of the kit and the contents,” Yana said. “My daughter especially enjoyed the chicken with pasta! Thank you very much. Receiving help is always important, and even more so in these difficult times. It fills us with hope for a better future.” But this food did even more than fill their aching, empty stomachs. Like Hanna, Yana said this relief showed her a glimpse of God’s love and how He works through people. She thanks the Lord for sustaining and watching over her, in part through the generosity of Samaritan’s Purse and its partners. “I believe that my faith in Christ protects me from falling into despair,” Yana said. “It helps me accept challenges and move forward into a new life.” Since the start of the conflict, Samaritan’s Purse has partnered with hundreds of Ukrainian churches to deliver over 285 million pounds of food and 33 million gallons of water to desperate residents. Please pray for our staff and partners to continue to faithfully proclaim the hope of Christ to those who are suffering. *Name changed for security ]]> https://www.samaritanspurse.org/article/from-ruin-to-rejoicing/ From Ruin to Rejoicing https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/948051422/0/samaritanspurse~From-Ruin-to-Rejoicing/ Fri, 20 Feb 2026 13:27:56 +0000 https://www.samaritanspurse.org/?post_type=sp-articles&p=268433 When Hurricane Helene swept through Swannanoa, North Carolina, it triggered a massive flood in Thomas Archer’s neighborhood. He watched as the raging water rose in his mobile home and his furniture sloshed from room to room, destroying it. After the water receded, mold quickly took its place, making the home uninhabitable. Thomas didn’t know what he was going to do, but he knew the One who could help him. “I prayed,” he said. “Please God, help me. And He did.” Thomas’ daughter got in touch with Samaritan’s Purse, and we were able to bless her dad with a new mobile home, given in Jesus’ Name. I prayed, 'Please God, help me.' And He did. “I’ve never had a new home in my life,” Thomas said. “I thank God a lot. I thank Samaritan’s Purse. They have worked wonders doing this for me. I’m truly blessed.” Thomas’ home is one of many that Samaritan’s Purse is providing in western North Carolina following the devastation caused by the storm. Please pray for our teams as they continue to minister to those still recovering from the destruction. ]]> When Hurricane Helene swept through Swannanoa, North Carolina, it triggered a massive flood in Thomas Archer’s neighborhood. He watched as the raging water rose in his mobile home and his furniture sloshed from room to room, destroying it. After the water receded, mold quickly took its place, making the home uninhabitable. Thomas didn’t know what he was going to do, but he knew the One who could help him. “I prayed,” he said. “Please God, help me. And He did.” Thomas’ daughter got in touch with Samaritan’s Purse, and we were able to bless her dad with a new mobile home, given in Jesus’ Name. I prayed, 'Please God, help me.' And He did. “I’ve never had a new home in my life,” Thomas said. “I thank God a lot. I thank Samaritan’s Purse. They have worked wonders doing this for me. I’m truly blessed.” Thomas’ home is one of many that Samaritan’s Purse is providing in western North Carolina following the devastation caused by the storm. Please pray for our teams as they continue to minister to those still recovering from the destruction. ]]> https://www.samaritanspurse.org/article/living-water-flows-in-a-liberian-prison/ Living Water Flows in a Liberian Prison https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/947924576/0/samaritanspurse~Living-Water-Flows-in-a-Liberian-Prison/ Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:03:25 +0000 https://www.samaritanspurse.org/?post_type=sp-articles&p=268230 Liberian inmate fills his bottle with clean drinking water from a system provided by Samaritan's Purse at Monrovia Central Prison.Prince still remembers those long weeks in Liberia’s dry season when the inmates at Monrovia Central Prison would have to wait for almost an hour for the prison well’s hand pump to bring water from deep below. During the rainy season, the well fills and the reservoirs overflow. But in the dry months, they were left with the laborious attempts to draw water by other means. As the Samaritan's Purse team in Liberia began assessing all sorts of needs a few years back in the capital city’s detention facility, a reliable water source topped the list. “Water is important of course because it is the source of life,” Prince said. “Without water, we cannot live.” It's an obvious truth, and a critical one for the scores of inmates and staff who have few other options if water runs out in the hot, rainless months they face each year. So we added better hand pumps and electric pumps to the water points, and we engineered a system of reservoirs that are filled by an additional pump system that's powered by solar energy from rooftop solar panels. This combination has provided drinking water, but also water for washing and for use in the prison’s clinic, kitchen, and bakery. And if the wells present a problem still, the reservoir system provides a backup source until the water table fills again. But the work Samaritan's Purse does in the country's prisons, including water, sanitation, food, and livelihoods projects, isn't an end in itself. It's not just about slaking physical thirst. It's a means by which we enrich the lives of inmates and officers and point them to the true source of life: the Living Water, Jesus Christ. Prince found both in the course of our ongoing work. Useful Skills and Discipleship We invited Prince to become one of our water system technicians. Seven years ago, when he first arrived at the prison, he knew nothing about mechanics. He did not understand pressure levels, horsepower, or how water moves from a well into elevated reservoirs and down into the compound. But over time, he stepped into the responsibility of helping maintain the prison’s water system—three pumps that draw water up and send it into tanks that supply the entire facility. We trained him in how to maintain and repair each component. We taught him how to monitor the water pressure and troubleshoot problems so he could keep the water flowing. This meant the system could stay running without too much input from outside. “It’s a great challenge. The water can go low, or a pump can get weak,” he said. "I will take these skills with me upon my release. I will take them with me and make them part of my life.” Most important though was how God used this work to draw him into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. Prince joined our discipleship program led by local pastors who have seen the Gospel provide freedom to men and women living within prison walls. Prince signed up for the class and began learning how to read the Bible. As he studied and read, he realized that God was speaking to him through His Word. "Two years ago, I graduated from the Samaritan's Purse study," Prince said. "It was my very first time to read the Word of God. I was so excited." Before that, he describes having no peace of mind. Through the program, he says, God began to change him. “I have made a great change,” he said. “I have peace now.” During the classes he realized his deeper thirst could not be quenched by even an endless supply of water from the wells in the prison yard. That spiritual need could only be met by Jesus Christ. He repented of his former life and professed faith in the Lord. As he continues to grow in knowledge, he's also grown in joy and hope in the midst of his incarceration. “God has added more to my life. He's opened my eyes to see all that He is doing,” he said. “He has made me very happy. And one day I can walk in the house of God to tell somebody that it is because of Samaritan's Purse that I am here today.” We thank God for what He is doing in Liberia!
     

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]]> Liberian inmate fills his bottle with clean drinking water from a system provided by Samaritan's Purse at Monrovia Central Prison.Prince still remembers those long weeks in Liberia’s dry season when the inmates at Monrovia Central Prison would have to wait for almost an hour for the prison well’s hand pump to bring water from deep below. During the rainy season, the well fills and the reservoirs overflow. But in the dry months, they were left with the laborious attempts to draw water by other means. As the Samaritan's Purse team in Liberia began assessing all sorts of needs a few years back in the capital city’s detention facility, a reliable water source topped the list. “Water is important of course because it is the source of life,” Prince said. “Without water, we cannot live.” It's an obvious truth, and a critical one for the scores of inmates and staff who have few other options if water runs out in the hot, rainless months they face each year. So we added better hand pumps and electric pumps to the water points, and we engineered a system of reservoirs that are filled by an additional pump system that's powered by solar energy from rooftop solar panels. This combination has provided drinking water, but also water for washing and for use in the prison’s clinic, kitchen, and bakery. And if the wells present a problem still, the reservoir system provides a backup source until the water table fills again. But the work Samaritan's Purse does in the country's prisons, including water, sanitation, food, and livelihoods projects, isn't an end in itself. It's not just about slaking physical thirst. It's a means by which we enrich the lives of inmates and officers and point them to the true source of life: the Living Water, Jesus Christ. Prince found both in the course of our ongoing work. Useful Skills and Discipleship We invited Prince to become one of our water system technicians. Seven years ago, when he first arrived at the prison, he knew nothing about mechanics. He did not understand pressure levels, horsepower, or how water moves from a well into elevated reservoirs and down into the compound. But over time, he stepped into the responsibility of helping maintain the prison’s water system—three pumps that draw water up and send it into tanks that supply the entire facility. We trained him in how to maintain and repair each component. We taught him how to monitor the water pressure and troubleshoot problems so he could keep the water flowing. This meant the system could stay running without too much input from outside. “It’s a great challenge. The water can go low, or a pump can get weak,” he said. "I will take these skills with me upon my release. I will take them with me and make them part of my life.” Most important though was how God used this work to draw him into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. Prince joined our discipleship program led by local pastors who have seen the Gospel provide freedom to men and women living within prison walls. Prince signed up for the class and began learning how to read the Bible. As he studied and read, he realized that God was speaking to him through His Word. "Two years ago, I graduated from the Samaritan's Purse study," Prince said. "It was my very first time to read the Word of God. I was so excited." Before that, he describes having no peace of mind. Through the program, he says, God began to change him. “I have made a great change,” he said. “I have peace now.” During the classes he realized his deeper thirst could not be quenched by even an endless supply of water from the wells in the prison yard. That spiritual need could only be met by Jesus Christ. He repented of his former life and professed faith in the Lord. As he continues to grow in knowledge, he's also grown in joy and hope in the midst of his incarceration. “God has added more to my life. He's opened my eyes to see all that He is doing,” he said. “He has made me very happy. And one day I can walk in the house of God to tell somebody that it is because of Samaritan's Purse that I am here today.” We thank God for what He is doing in Liberia!
     

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]]> https://www.samaritanspurse.org/article/shining-as-lights-in-the-world/ Shining as Lights in the World https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/947568971/0/samaritanspurse~Shining-as-Lights-in-the-World/ Tue, 17 Feb 2026 16:27:30 +0000 https://samaritanspurse.org/?post_type=sp-articles&p=268565 disabled adults in front of painting of the Good SamaritanAlthough Shane believed in God, he knew that his life wasn’t devoted to following the Savior. “I had felt loss for a while,” he said. “I hadn’t read my Bible in so long.” God used a Samaritan’s Purse home rebuild project in Watauga County, North Carolina, to help open Shane’s heart to return to the Lord. As he learned the mechanics of rebuilding and repairing from our staff, such as mudding and sanding drywall, he also engaged in Gospel-centered conversations with his team and our staff members. By the end of the week, Shane had decided to recommit his life to Jesus Christ. “I feel peace now. I have praise for God,” he said. Shane participated in the rebuild project with a group of adults from Indiana who have intellectual and developmental disabilities. The trip to North Carolina was organized by Jess Berryhill, the student and special needs minister at a church in Terre Haute. Ten years ago, Jess started a Bible study for adults with disabilities that has about 100 participants every week, including Shane. She is also executive director of Friendship House, which provides affordable housing and independent living for disabled adults. Jess had been praying and seeking a way for the disabled friends in her life to participate in a Christ-exalting service opportunity. Sadly, she discovered that such projects can be scarce for disabled adults, and she wondered if she would ever find the right volunteer fit. We praise God that Jess and her friends connected with Samaritan’s Purse and are not only blessing hurting families in the wake of natural disasters, but having lots of fun while doing it. “Seeing them be exactly who God made them to be, and also allowing them to try new things, is beautiful,” Jess said. Bringing Joy Jess and her group first volunteered with our rebuild efforts in Mayfield, Kentucky, where we are bringing families home after a catastrophic tornado ripped through the town and destroyed more than 1,300 houses and business. They enjoyed learning about rebuilding and repairing homes, and developed relationships with homeowners and our staff. “They just light up a room and bring so much joy,” Jess said. The crew returned to Mayfield several times, even participating in a home dedication ceremony. “To work on that house all week and then see it all come together was really awesome for our group,” Jess said. In addition to their most recent trip to Watauga County, the group has also served in Burnsville, North Carolina, where Samaritan’s Purse continues rebuilding in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. With every trip, Jess said that her friends are “gaining confidence in their new skills.” More important than the technical skills they are gaining is the encouragement they are receiving from staff and other volunteers. Jess shared that a significant factor in Shane rededicating his life to Jesus Christ was the unconditional love he experienced from the Samaritan’s Purse team. “Some in the group don’t have family,” she said. “We want to help them find pockets of belonging.” “It’s a reminder that God hasn’t forgotten them. He has a brilliant plan for each one of them.” Jess said that while she feels called by the Lord to reach out to adults with disabilities, the ministry can be isolating and lonely. She is grateful to Samaritan’s Purse for welcoming her friends and showing them God’s love. “It’s a reminder that God hasn’t forgotten them. He has a brilliant plan for each one of them.” If you are interested in serving with U.S. Rebuild, please see spvolunteer.org for opportunities available now. “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10). ]]> disabled adults in front of painting of the Good SamaritanAlthough Shane believed in God, he knew that his life wasn’t devoted to following the Savior. “I had felt loss for a while,” he said. “I hadn’t read my Bible in so long.” God used a Samaritan’s Purse home rebuild project in Watauga County, North Carolina, to help open Shane’s heart to return to the Lord. As he learned the mechanics of rebuilding and repairing from our staff, such as mudding and sanding drywall, he also engaged in Gospel-centered conversations with his team and our staff members. By the end of the week, Shane had decided to recommit his life to Jesus Christ. “I feel peace now. I have praise for God,” he said. Shane participated in the rebuild project with a group of adults from Indiana who have intellectual and developmental disabilities. The trip to North Carolina was organized by Jess Berryhill, the student and special needs minister at a church in Terre Haute. Ten years ago, Jess started a Bible study for adults with disabilities that has about 100 participants every week, including Shane. She is also executive director of Friendship House, which provides affordable housing and independent living for disabled adults. Jess had been praying and seeking a way for the disabled friends in her life to participate in a Christ-exalting service opportunity. Sadly, she discovered that such projects can be scarce for disabled adults, and she wondered if she would ever find the right volunteer fit. We praise God that Jess and her friends connected with Samaritan’s Purse and are not only blessing hurting families in the wake of natural disasters, but having lots of fun while doing it. “Seeing them be exactly who God made them to be, and also allowing them to try new things, is beautiful,” Jess said. Bringing Joy Jess and her group first volunteered with our rebuild efforts in Mayfield, Kentucky, where we are bringing families home after a catastrophic tornado ripped through the town and destroyed more than 1,300 houses and business. They enjoyed learning about rebuilding and repairing homes, and developed relationships with homeowners and our staff. “They just light up a room and bring so much joy,” Jess said. The crew returned to Mayfield several times, even participating in a home dedication ceremony. “To work on that house all week and then see it all come together was really awesome for our group,” Jess said. In addition to their most recent trip to Watauga County, the group has also served in Burnsville, North Carolina, where Samaritan’s Purse continues rebuilding in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. With every trip, Jess said that her friends are “gaining confidence in their new skills.” More important than the technical skills they are gaining is the encouragement they are receiving from staff and other volunteers. Jess shared that a significant factor in Shane rededicating his life to Jesus Christ was the unconditional love he experienced from the Samaritan’s Purse team. “Some in the group don’t have family,” she said. “We want to help them find pockets of belonging.” “It’s a reminder that God hasn’t forgotten them. He has a brilliant plan for each one of them.” Jess said that while she feels called by the Lord to reach out to adults with disabilities, the ministry can be isolating and lonely. She is grateful to Samaritan’s Purse for welcoming her friends and showing them God’s love. “It’s a reminder that God hasn’t forgotten them. He has a brilliant plan for each one of them.” If you are interested in serving with U.S. Rebuild, please see spvolunteer.org for opportunities available now. “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10). ]]> https://www.samaritanspurse.org/article/edward-graham-visits-winter-storm-damaged-louisiana/ Edward Graham Visits Winter Storm-Damaged Louisiana https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/946529759/0/samaritanspurse~Edward-Graham-Visits-Winter-StormDamaged-Louisiana/ Fri, 13 Feb 2026 17:05:56 +0000 https://www.samaritanspurse.org/?post_type=sp-articles&p=268485 Samaritan's Purse COO Edward Graham visited West Monroe, Louisiana, communities on Wednesday, February 11, to encourage homeowners and volunteers in the wake of a damaging winter storm that left communities without power and properties filled with trees and debris. Graham also spent time with players of the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) football team volunteering with Samaritan's Purse in their school's hometown. "The Lord tells us to serve and that's what we're out here doing," said John Goodman, an offensive tackle for the ULM Warhawks. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: SIGN UP TO SERVE Samaritan's Purse volunteers have been serving out of five response locations to help residents clean up in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee. Many more volunteers are needed, so please consider serving in one of these hard-hit areas and continue to pray for the struggling communities. Please pray for homeowners and churches seeking to minister to them, and for our volunteers and staff as they serve hurting families in Jesus' Name. ]]> Samaritan's Purse COO Edward Graham visited West Monroe, Louisiana, communities on Wednesday, February 11, to encourage homeowners and volunteers in the wake of a damaging winter storm that left communities without power and properties filled with trees and debris. Graham also spent time with players of the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) football team volunteering with Samaritan's Purse in their school's hometown. "The Lord tells us to serve and that's what we're out here doing," said John Goodman, an offensive tackle for the ULM Warhawks. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: SIGN UP TO SERVE Samaritan's Purse volunteers have been serving out of five response locations to help residents clean up in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee. Many more volunteers are needed, so please consider serving in one of these hard-hit areas and continue to pray for the struggling communities. Please pray for homeowners and churches seeking to minister to them, and for our volunteers and staff as they serve hurting families in Jesus' Name. ]]>