Ukraine
DIRECTION OF THE MWB MINISTRY IN UKRAINE
The hub of our work is the Mission Center in Rivne, the capital of the province including Chernobyl. Much of the country is still affected by the nuclear disaster. This and economic devastation have brought the nation, which once produced over 50% of the Soviet Union’s agricultural goods, close to bankruptcy.
Nearly every family in the Ukraine is in great need. Post-communist economic reforms have been slow. Inflation continues to rise faster than wages and employment is scarce. In addition, the legacy of Chernobyl continues to impact many residents in the surrounding areas. Water, soil and food contamination have led to malnutrition, anemia and reduced immunity to disease.
After independence in August of 1991, Ukraine got a painful start into a market society. The economy collapsed, reducing the country to a partial barter society. Today, families face widespread unemployment. Even employed workers often do not receive wages for months at a time.
Ukraine is still suffering the aftermath of the Chernobyl disaster. There is high unemployment and high inflation, with over 100,000 children living in institutions. Working through our three community centres, Family to Family and Family Care projects, we are able to provide basic needs to thousands of the very poorest families. Our vocational and educational training opportunities, such as sewing, carpentry, cookery and computing, are giving hundreds of people a chance to work. Other needs are met through free dental care and our Mother care project. Thousands of people are reached nationwide with our Christian Radio programmes. All this help, often together with churches and their volunteers, done in the name of Christ brings hope to those who were in despair.
Our CRI sponsorship program reaches institutionalised children whose daily struggle to survive is alleviated through spiritual, Emotional, educational and material aid.
