Deep needs

Money is such a tough topic. 

Some people have a lot of it, some have none, some have a tad and others a moderate amount.  Certainly living here, we are surrounded by poverty and need.  There’s also some massive wealth and the gap between the two is large.  It’s overwhelming really.  Today was a frustrating money day where I found myself wanting LOTS of it!  I mean lots.   

We work alongside a group of girls, ages 8-18, who’ve been rescued from the streets or extremely difficult home lives.  I’ve been aware of so many of their needs, but today I learned of more and it’s just pushing me over the edge. These young girls are lacking the most basic universal human needs.

ALL of the girls have stories and problems that would leave you dumbfounded by the amount of trauma they’ve experienced.  They have suffered at the hands of others, more often than not raped by neighbors, family, strangers, or employers.  They are hurting, angry, and broken deep down, but at the same time seem so resilient on the outside.  They need to talk to an experienced, Christ-loving therapist.  They desperately need counseling.  ($400.00/month)

One of the young girls has a 3-4 month old baby.  I learned that her baby has been crying all night, the mother’s milk supply has dwindled, and they have no money for milk.  The director enthusiastically says, “The Lord will provide”!  Milk is needed.  ($15.00/month cows milk~much more for formula)

Their home has been broken into twice and their cooking supplies and oil were stolen as well as some clothing.  When there’s an entire home of 40+ girls and the whole community knows they are young, vulnerable, and living together in a home, they sadly become a target for sexual predators.  There’s been a history of this at their previous location.  They need a guard. ($200.00/month)

The girls are rescued and given shelter but providing enough or the right kind of foods is a struggle.  They recently went through a spell of having no cooking oil or vegetables.  So there was simply rice for meals.  They need food. ($800.00/month)

One young girl has epilepsy.  Many have HIV and Hepatitis.  Another is 14 yrs old and pregnant.  They need medication and healthcare. 

The solutions are not easy.  These girls are victims and didn’t bring their situations upon themselves.  It’s so tough to know how to help best.  We try to help where we can, but our pockets aren’t nearly as deep as their needs.  I get that money isn't the only answer, but it certainly is an answer to a hungry baby or an unprotected house full of young girls.  

They long for love, peace, and healing.  They need Christ!  Now this we can certainly work towards.  After all that price has already been paid by our Savior!