When COVID-19 struck in early 2020, we prayed together for the virus to ‘pass over’ the African continent. Looking back, we have seen God’s mercy in that the virus didn’t strike as hard in most African countries than in many Western countries. We are grateful that God has given us this protection. The lives of children and families who we are directly involved with have been spared. Few fell sick, but all recovered.
Nevertheless, COVID has been a harsh reality in Africa. The countries we work in are all affected differently by the virus and have their own approach. Many people in Africa have been more affected by the COVID restrictions in the past year than by the virus itself. They lost their jobs, shops closed, and food became more expensive. Many schools were closed for months with little outside learning.
“The risk of COVID-19 scares us less than the danger of hunger. In the slums, the food shortages are severe.”
How did COVID affect the Christ’s Hope program?
For a few months in 2020, CarePoints closed due to COVID restrictions. The CareGivers visited the children and their families and provided tailor-made assistance. Among other things, they distributed emergency food and health packages, provided information, and placed hand washing stations throughout the communities surrounding the CarePoints. All of this was made possible by generous donors!
“Even in these difficult times for you, you have been generous in continuing to support us. That creates a lot of joy among the children here, and we are thankful!”
