|
As you may know, on September 1, 2009, almost of foot of rain flooded the capital city of Burkina Faso, Ouagadougou. About 170,000 persons were left homeless as their mud brick huts were washed away, taking with it the very little they owned. Bridges were also wiped out, roads crumbled, buildings collapsed, vehicles floated away. It was devastating. 
However,
it was impressive to see this little impoverished country jump into
action as soon as the rains stopped. Immediately, shelter was provided
in local schools and churches. The government placed agents of the
social agency in each of these facilities to begin registering
families. They announced food would be provided for at least the next
30 days. Missions organizations like ourselves and SIM, local churches
and other groups provided mosquito nets, soap, dishes for cooking, and
other very basic necessities. 
Hand
of Hope/Joyce Meyer Ministries made a donation so that Burkina Faso
Outreach in partnership with SIM was also able to lend a hand and
provide tangible support. 
The
road ahead is a long one. Roads, bridges, street lights need to be
repaired. The school year has started so the flood victims are now
living under tents. Millions are needed to rebuild homes and
businesses. Many crops were destroyed so food assistance will be
needed for some time. However, Burkina has made an international plea
and support is coming in. The Burkinabe are accustomed to fighting to
survive, so they are not sitting idle. Through it all,
we know the Lord is sovereign. We pray the Lord will provide, that He
will meet their needs, and that those who are questioning why will
find their comfort and provision in Him. 
|
