24 November 2008

Christmas for street children in Africa

Bill Dolack

On the way to school the other day, my young daughter said something that was wise in its innocence. She said, "Santa Claus should have his workshop in Africa because the kids there don't have enough presents."

Now, whether you believe in Santa or not is not the point. The fact is, children in many countries in Africa are among the poorest in the world.

War, famine, and devastating diseases such as AIDS and malaria have taken a deadly toll on the children of sub-Saharan Africa. It is estimated that 30,000 children die every day from malnutrition and disease illness caused by contaminated drinking water. When we turn on the water faucet and clean, cold water pours out, we take it for granted. When we sit down at the supper table and are served a meal with abundant fresh foods, we take it for granted.

The children of Africa, on the other hand, appreciate what little they have.

According to published reports, more than one-quarter of the world's children are underweight or stunted. Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for a large number of these children.

And every year, there are up to half a billion cases of malaria worldwide, with a million fatalities. Eighty percent of the victims are African children.

Fortunately, there are programs like Evangelical Rural Mission’s Children Harvest Ministry.

This unique program targets both Christian widows from area churches and local street children, providing each with a home and stable life.

Children Harvest enables street children – who have often fallen into a life of crime and violence – to experience what it means to be part of a family . . . including being a responsible member of that family.

The children are placed with a widow and all are taught gardening skills so they can grow their own vegetables. Not only does this provide life-giving food that might not otherwise be available, it makes it possible for those who had once been on the receiving end of help to now supply their own food, and perhaps some extra to share.

Children Harvest is an important ministry, especially in these days of unrest and economic turmoil.

And while the children are being raised, they are learning about Jesus Christ. Young children are reached for the Lord, making this a bountiful harvest indeed.

As we approach the Christmas season this year, let us forget about Santa Claus and gaily-wrapped gifts, and think instead about the children of Africa, who are in such need. A gift of $250 allows Evangelical Rural Mission to supply a family with the needed hand tools, seeds, fertilizer, and training to become self-sustaining farmers.

And what a Christmas gift that would be for a needy Christian woman in Africa and the street children whom she is raising.