While there is much uncertainty and instability surrounding Covid-19, Hands at Work is committed to ensuring that the most vulnerable children receive a hot and nutritious meal daily, whilst adhering to the regulations and restrictions put into place by health care professionals and governments.
As the number of Coronavirus cases in many African countries continues to rise, so does the fear that has filled our children, Primary Caregivers and Care Workers. With limited knowledge of what is happening, and misinformation being shared, many people are unsure who they can trust. Many of our Primary Caregivers have lost work, meaning that the struggle to provide for their families has become even greater. Across Africa, the idea of ‘social distancing’ is foreign, as relationships and social interaction are an integral part of the culture – which can be seen in families and in the interactions of people at the local marketplace. Together, these challenges have filled our Primary Caregivers, Care Workers and children with anxiety about what tomorrow will hold and a fear of the unknown.
However, it is in the midst of the fear and anxiety that many Care Workers are choosing to continue to serve the most vulnerable children. Across Africa there are stories of Care Workers who are coming to their Care Points early in the morning, sometimes as early as 5am, to cook food and then, later, serve it to the children. Thank God for each of these men and women who, in the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic, remain dedicated to their care of the most vulnerable, recognising that without their support the children might not survive.
Pray for each child and Primary Caregiver, that God will bring comfort and peace during this season of uncertainty. Ask God to give each Care Worker strength, courage and spirits of wisdom and sensitivity as they serve the children. Pray for peace and protection, and that every child, Primary Caregiver and Care Worker will develop a deeper relationship with Christ and trust in His ‘perfect love that drives out fear’.
“We need to trust in God because faith is vital in our lives, especially in the times that we are in. Many people are living in fear, both inside and outside the church, but the Christian walk is a walk of faith. Throughout the Bible, we are encouraged to walk by faith and not by sight, and sharing Bible stories about how God cared for people in the Old and New Testament is a great encouragement to the Care Workers and children. Remember that God’s ears are attentive to every prayer that we offer to Him.” – Blessings Sambo, African Volunteer (Zambia)