World Concern - A Division of CRISTA Ministries

Providing life, opportunity and hope to many of the world's poorest and most vulnerable children and families, through emergency relief, rehabilitation, long-term development and Christian love and service.

Why do we exist?

Our purpose is to share the love of Christ in word and deed with the poorest families worldwide. Since 1955 World Concern has been living out the commitment to strengthen families by enabling them to have meaningful work and skills that will allow them to be able to lead productive lives and feed their families. We believe the family is the cornerstone of the community, and if families are strong, whole communities will be uplifted. Most often, the children who are vulnerable to prostitution, malnutrition, and abuse can best be helped by reaching out to the family as a whole.

By participating in well-proven programs, each family is equipped to overcome the cycle of poverty. Livestock development, improved crops, proper irrigation, and emergency food distribution are improving food security for families. Microenterprises, small business loans, and management training also enable them to improve their standard of living for the long term. Emergency relief is given with the goal of long-term development if needed. Most importantly, we bring the hope of Christ's love as we serve.

What have you accomplished?

With the help of faithful donors, World Concern serves over 4 million of the world's poorest people each year. We do this through our own field workers in 22 countries. They are seasoned professionals, willing to share their skills and give their lives for the people we serve. Through strategic partnerships around the world,

World Concern serves over 80 countries, helping to change the lives of those without hope. Hurricane Mitch and the crisis in Kosovo presented the challenge and opportunity of providing food, clothing, cooking utensils, and other life-sustaining supplies to those whose lives were so deeply affected. Several tons of clothing, baby formula and emergency supplies were sent from our headquarters in Seattle to provide aid and relief. Food, blankets, cooking utensils and other items were purchased close to the crisis to provide immediate relief. World Concern partnered with several churches in Latin American and Albania along with other agencies to meet the needs of many who were missed or forgotten in these crises.

Many churches and partners were provided technical support and training to sustain ongoing aid. We will remain involved in rehabilitation efforts in both areas. Over $15 Million worth of life-giving supplies have been sent to 52 countries around the world this year. Our development programs reach into areas of the world where people are many times unreached or forgotten. In many cases the countries are difficult to access. We choose to go where the people are the poorest and the least amount of help is being given, those who have "fallen through the cracks."

	How do you help people in my community?		Why do you need my support?
	How can I be sure that you will use my money wisely and won't waste it?		Can I Volunteer? How?