Are you overwhelmed yet? Each day, we wake up and brace ourselves for yet another wave of troubling news—cost of living rising, new tariffs in place, natural disasters hitting, and political upheaval.

We are living in incredibly uncertain times.

In addition, we are facing the devastating reality that the world's largest funding agency is forced to suspend life-changing programs. This halts vital support for people living through some of their worst days. The disruption of international assistance is an added blow to hurting and vulnerable people who were already struggling to meet their basic needs. With projects paused and staff members dismissed, momentum is lost in breaking the cycle of poverty for suffering families. 

In the midst of this, Food for the Hungry (FH) Canada remains unwavering in our dedication to our global neighbours and to leaders in partner communities.

If critical partners are forced to stop their work, thousands of families will lose their hard-earned gains and the necessary support to feed their children, keep healthy, and break the cycle of poverty. It will be a challenge for international teams to continue walking alongside families, leaders, and local churches as they navigate funding setbacks, shifting priorities, and the economic crises. 

Already, I know our partner communities in Ethiopia are affected. I recently returned from a visit to that country, and heard from local leaders how these global crises are affecting daily life. The cost of basic needs has increased by as much as 30%. Conflict spreading in the north of the country has forced thousands of people to flee for safety, and a historic drought has left at least 11 million people without enough food to eat. Although we’ve begun to respond to this situation alongside our local partners, their outreach will be forced to pause as financial aid stalls.

The uncertainty is daunting, but in the wake of adversity, we continue to persevere in our mission to see children and families flourish. 

We take heart in knowing we have these strengths as our foundation:

Community members from Busekera, Rwanda celebrate the joyful completion of a successful partnership with Food for the Hungry.

–1.–Long-term commitment to our community partnerships

Our 10-year commitment approach proves its value in times of crisis. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we provide reliable support and work directly with local leaders and community members to maximise our impact. This makes us well-positioned to step up in several locations, and builds deep trust. We are known for keeping our promises. Over time, this trust transforms into real opportunities for families to break free from poverty.

Through agricultural training, a group of farmers in Cambodia were equipped to grow thriving gardens!

–2.–Proven impact

The expertise and proven track record we’ve built have been made possible by the committed support of people like you. Looking back on 2024, for reminders, some key impacts include:

–––• 22 communities across Ethiopia, Bangladesh, and Cambodia reached their 10-year goals, and saw the

–––end of extreme poverty for thousands of families. 

–––• In Burundi, 70% of savings group members reported improved ability to face economic challenges -

––– together we built resilience for these uncertain times! 

–––• ​In Guatemala, 556 volunteers reached over 5,000 mothers with health or early childhood development

––– messaging improving children's chances of avoiding life-threatening diseases.

Faithful Canadian supporters visit a group of mothers in Vichibala, an FH partner community in Guatemala.

––3.––Faithful, reliable supporters

Most importantly, we are strengthened by the consistent generosity of our dedicated donors. 90% of our outreach is funded privately by individuals, businesses and churches here in Canada. Our journey has always been shared with a global community of compassionate and generous individuals across Canada and the world. It’s this faithfulness and unity that will see us all through the challenges we currently face- together we can continue to make a difference.

Above all, we cannot forget, as an organization and network, that our greatest source of stability and comfort flows from our Creator. As Jesus reminded us, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33).

These words offer profound assurance—no matter what obstacles we come up against—we are not alone. Through God’s promise to be our ever present peace, we can face each day with renewed courage.

As Canadians, where do we go from here? I do not presume to know how you are affected by unfolding events, but I don’t believe we can sit idly by and wait for the uncertainty to settle. Now more than ever, families around the world need to see their neighbours step up and show their support. Alongside other countries, Canadians need to lean into their responsibility to help those who are stuck in crisis. By rallying together, we can have a chance to build thriving and sustainable communities even when tensions are rising.

With your help, we intend to stand in the gaps anywhere we can. Let’s not be distracted and forget about our global neighbours and families in need. As caring Canadians, we can rise to the call to help. We can do this together.

I get it–everyone’s stretched a little thin right now, and that’s okay! We want to invite you into a few simple and meaningful ways you can stand with us. 

Pray for those affected, here in Canada and in partner communities.

Share what’s happening, and invite others to step up with you.

Give today, to stand in the gap for families in need.

Together, as Canadians and as part of the global community, we have the ability to make a genuine impact.

With your support, FH Canada can and will continue to help families break free from the cycle of poverty.

Donate today