In the Horn of Africa many families survive on less than two dollars a day. Rural farmers and their families have an even more vulnerable existence as they rely on seasonal rains not only to feed their families but also to make a living (subsistence farming). And in Ethiopia a country comprised of upwards of 100 million souls - more than 70% of the population call themselves subsistence farmers ('gerbereh' in the Ethiopian language aka Amharic). This much-needed project serves as a practical income generating effort for Nazarenes in need in the Horn and their neighbors. By providing animals such as chickens, goats, sheep, cows and even camels lives can vastly be improved.

Marta is a member of a Nazarene church on the Omo District in Ethiopia. She worked hard to provide and care for her six children.

One day, her husband suddenly left her. She was desperate and did not know what to do. Unable to continue to provide for her children, she was forced to give up two of her children.

Through her church, Marta heard about a project that would provide her with a milking cow. She was overjoyed. District Nazarene Compassionate Ministries leaders recommended and oversaw this purchase and soon after Marta began selling excess milk in the local market and feeding her children with the milk from the cow.

Because of the gift of this cow, Marta has been able to reconnect with the two children she gave up and is now able to provide for her family. She was again overjoyed that this meaningful, life-giving, gift had reunited her family.

Recently Marta’s cow has had a calf and we praise God because this means the district will now appoint another needy family to receive this gift from God to encourage His love in action in meaningful and sustainable ways in Ethiopia.

I also received an email that one of Marta's children had recently been baptized. God is so good. He encourages us in our time of need so we can do so for others with open and full hearts. 

For each donation (any amount whether small or large is welcome) and when appropriate a pregnant female animal will be purchased and its offspring given to another needy family in Jesus name. Self-sustaining natural projects like this can greatly alleviate poverty and share the love of Jesus Christ in tangible and meaningful ways.