An Update on Survival Activities in Ethiopia

Pictured above: Caregivers from Mulu Wongel Child Development Center learn about ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Caring for the Most Vulnerable

Ethiopia is facing a humanitarian crisis due to the COVID-19 pandemic, ethnic violence, severe flooding and a locust outbreak. Some regions in Ethiopia are reporting a nearly 50% increase in malnutrition hospitalizations. Many families rely on agriculture for their income, which makes the destruction of crops and economic slowdown adversely impact their monthly wages. Officials have put strict regulations in place to stop the spread of the virus in Ethiopia. Individuals are required to follow regulations or face potential jail time.

Most Compassion centers in Ethiopia are still pausing their in-person programming to protect the health and safety of children and their families. Depending on the region, some churches are beginning to allow children to attend in-person programming in small groups. Survival staff in Ethiopia are distributing food and hygiene kits to caregivers and babies. They are also providing pre- and post-natal medical support to caregivers, and assisting in getting necessary medications and immunizations for their children. Staff in Ethiopia created a radio channel so that learning can continue for families while at home. When possible, caregivers attend prayer and worship sessions outside church buildings for fellowship with other mothers

Ethiopia COVID-19 Response
(April – November 2020)

A Letter of Gratitude from a Caregiver at Mulu Wongel Child Development Center

My Dear Supporters,

Greetings! My name is Chaltu and I live in a town about 20 miles away from the capital city of Ethiopia. I have lived here for four years. My children who are registered at the center are twins named Abdanne and Abdissa. I have three daughters and two sons. In total, we are a family of seven including me and their father living in a small house. We prepare the food we eat in the same house. I used to get very sick before I started attending programming at the center. I used to suffer a lot because I lacked the money to get medical treatment.

One day, God saw my problem and Survival specialists were recruiting people in my community. I became very happy because I was finally able to receive treatment. I gave birth to the twins safely through medical assistance for the first time. I didn’t have enough breastmilk for the infants, so the Survival program helped me get additional food. I didn’t have any kind of emotional support or counseling service before and I used to live with a lot of suffering and misery. Now, thanks be to God, I am much better. My whole family has accepted the Lord Jesus as our personal Savior. Our darkness has turned into light, and we are leading good lives and thanking the Lord. May God’s name be blessed. Lastly, I want to give my heartfelt thanks to you for your support.

Survival Statistics at Mulu Wongel Child Development Center
(July – December 2020)

Caregivers at Mulu Wongel Child Development Center Receive Support

Survival Statistics at Enchini Mulu Wongel Student Center
(July – December 2020)

Recent Survival Activities at Enchini Mulu Wongel Student Center

Thank You

Church at Brook Hills, thank you for your generosity in support of Compassion Survival in Ethiopia. During this time, precious babies and their families are receiving vital care at the churches you support. You have made it possible for families to experience a tangible expression of God’s love for them. May God richly bless you!