While countrywide evacuations are a logistical challenge – imagine the crisis for Ukrainians with disabilities who have no way to escape on their own.
As bombs rained down, those with physical disabilities felt trapped and terrified.
But thanks to Joni and Friends and their incredible ministry, many Ukrainians with disabilities were evacuated to safety – and just wait until you hear the incredible story.
To start, the refugee crisis caused by attacks on Ukraine is massive.
It’s estimated more than 3.5 million people have already left Ukraine and have found refuge in neighboring countries like Poland and Romania.
While many Ukrainians are safe, women and children especially faced danger as sexual predators are posing as pastors and trying to kidnap them at the border.
Others died while trying to escape and never made it out of Ukraine.
And with more than 2.7 million Ukrainians having disabilities – Joni and Friends felt convicted to stand in the gap and help them – both immediately and in the long-term.
Working with partners and churches around the world, they organized multiple evacuations, ensuring that those with disabilities reached safety and received the care they needed.
Joni and Friends reported:
“Joni and Friends sees the long-term needs of the people flooding out of Ukraine, especially those with disabilities. The organization’s Netherlands location has already welcomed 118 evacuees impacted by disability, and is preparing to receive more, up to its 400-person capacity.
In the Netherlands and other locations, Joni and Friends plans, with the help of partners and local churches, to provide shelter, hygiene products, medical attention, clothing, food, and counseling for psychological trauma.”
Praise the Lord for this incredible ministry!
The situation is Ukraine desperate – and there is so much need.
And when each ministry or church does their part – God’s glory and love is on display for the world to see.
Even a local church in the United States was able to raise $145,000 to help Ukrainian refugees…
… by hosting a bake sale!
Incredible.
Joni Eareckson-Tada is no stranger to adversity, and she has touched hearts and minds around the world with her incredible testimony in remaining faithful to God amongst intense suffering.
Ukraine might not be in the mainstream news as much, but the Ukrainian people still need our prayers.
Let us pray Ukrainian churches remain strong despite the attacks – and can lead others to Christ.
And consider taking a moment to read through the specific prayer requests for Christians on the ground and take time with your family to pray for them.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” – John 3:16-17
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