You Shine Light in the Darkness After Devastating Floods

NORTH CAROLINA – One year ago, Hurricane Helene roared into western North Carolina, bringing devastating floods that left the serene mountain communities of Asheville and Swannanoa cloaked in chaos and destruction. Floodwaters surged, landslides swallowed homes, and beloved small businesses teetered on the edge of collapse. After devastating floods, many felt like the light had gone out. But friends like you refused to let the darkness win.

In the wake of devastation, Operation Blessing launched an ongoing response to help the region recover. Thanks to your unwavering support, that journey became one of restoration, revival—and radiant hope. One of the most powerful stories to emerge is that of Robert, a quiet man seeking peace in Swannanoa. His path had already been marked by decades of chronic illness and pain. He moved to the mountains in search of rest, but even the beauty of the Blue Ridge couldn’t shield him from hardship. As his body weakened, his hope waned. Then Hurricane Helene hit, worsening the already deteriorating conditions of his home. The darkness in his life seemed complete—until your love broke through.

Devastating Floods from Hurricane Helene

With your support, volunteers came alongside Robert with prayer and support. Now, his house is being repaired, and he’s receiving the help he desperately needed to create a clean, livable space where he can finally breathe again. And more than anything, he’s rediscovering something he’d long lost—hope.“It gives me hope and makes me very happy,” he said. “It gives you life.” And Robert wasn’t the only one whose life was touched.

In the heart of Swannanoa, Short Sleeves Coffee was just days from opening its doors when the floods came. Founder Daniel Lancaster had poured his heart into restoring a century-old building, only to see it ruined. Then you stepped in. Operation Blessing volunteers joined Daniel to help with cleanup and repairs.Your generosity didn’t stop there. Daniel received a beautifully refurbished commercial coffee roaster to help launch his business. “The roaster is the biggest gift we could’ve received,” Daniel said. “The help we’ve received has been incredible. It’s allowed us to move forward again.”

And move forward they did— joined by others whose homes and businesses were revived through your compassion. A beloved BBQ restaurant was rebuilt with fresh drywall. A local tire shop was equipped with brand-new machines. Volunteers like you showed up with tools, time, and tenacity—each act a spark of light driving back the darkness.

And up in Flat Rock, you helped retired fire chief Gary Brown—battling terminal cancer—rebuild a safe deck and home for him and his family. From landslide-buried homes to storm-shattered businesses, your love has been a steady presence in Asheville and beyond. Your ongoing compassion and support are empowering neighbors to rebuild stronger than before.

It’s been a year since Helene, and thanks to you, the light is still shining. Recently, when another wave of devastating floods struck central Texas—wreaking havoc and death—you reached out there, as well. You’ve shown us all what it means to be the hands and feet of Jesus—responding in times of crisis with open hearts and a willingness to serve after devastating floods. So thank you. For shining light in the darkness. For restoring dreams. For bringing hope to North Carolina, Texas, and hurting people around the world. And for reminding us all that no matter how deep the shadow, God’s love—through friends like you— will always break through.

A Year of Hope After Hurricane Helene

NORTH CAROLINA – One year ago, Hurricane Helene roared across the Southeast, unleashing devastation from Florida to Virginia. Lives were lost, homes were swept away, and entire communities like Asheville, North Carolina, were left in pieces. But in the middle of that heartbreaking destruction—you showed up, and so now we have something to celebrate on this one year anniversary of Hurricane Helene.

Because of your compassionate giving, Operation Blessing teams were able to deploy immediately. You provided hot meals to hungry families, clean drinking water for storm victims, and hygiene kits for those who had lost everything. In Asheville alone, you helped serve nearly 40,000 hot meals and launched long-term recovery efforts to rebuild 175 homes in partnership with local churches.

You didn’t just help rebuild walls—you helped restore lives.

Like Christine and Herman Hollifield, elderly grandparents with serious health challenges, who were living in a cramped RV after floodwaters destroyed their home of 30 years. Thanks to you, their home is now rebuilt and filled once again with laughter and love. Christine said tearfully, “Just give me four walls, and that’s enough.” But you gave them so much more.

One Year After Hurricane Helene

You also helped a coffee shop reopen, supported local businesses, and even brought joy to children through special events and outreach. You’ll want to watch the full video above to see all the amazing work that has been done thanks to our incredible donors like you.

Helene was a storm no one could forget—but neither can they forget the compassion you showed in its wake.

Thank you for being the hands and feet of Jesus during one of the darkest chapters in these communities’ lives.

Let’s continue building a future of hope—together.

A Recipe for Hope Through the Gift of Cooking

VIETNAM – Giang Thi Xung spent her childhood surrounded by limitations. But her life was transformed through the gift of cooking, opening doors she never thought possible.” Born in Nhiu Co San, located in the misty mountains of Vietnam, she was well versed in the challenges that come with poverty and isolation. It was a region where education is cut short and job opportunities are rare. Where the future often looks narrow for young girls like her.

But where so many stories might have ended, Xung’s was only beginning. She was selected to participate in a three-month culinary training program made possible through a partnership between Operation Blessing and Oneway Ministry. Xung left her village for the very first time and joined a small group of other young men and women, each hungry for knowledge, community, and change.

Embracing the Gift of Cooking and New Opportunities

Every day, Xung learned about nutrition, hygiene, and meal preparation—embracing the gift of cooking that would shape her future and restore her confidence. “The best part was learning so many things and making new friends,” Xung said. “Most importantly, God led me through challenges without any difficulty. I’m really thankful to the ministry for supporting us. Without them, we wouldn’t have what we have today.”

Xung soon discovered that the program was the beginning of a new journey, fueled by your support. You gave her more than just a simple cooking course; you helped provide Xung with a path to purpose. After earning her certificate, she returned to Nhiu Co San and was hired as a cook at the local preschool—the very same school she once attended as a child. Now, Xung wakes early each morning to prepare warm, healthy meals for the next generation, nourishing little bodies with skills that bring health and life to herself and the community.

Because of your kindness, a young woman who once faced an uncertain future now plays a vital role in her community, passing on the gift of cooking to nourish and inspire the next generation.

A Daughter Born With a Hole in Her Heart & A Widow’s Fight to Save Her

CHINA – When baby Yuwen was born with a hole in her heart, her mother’s world shattered. Mrs. Wang, a grieving widow with no education or job, was left to raise her daughter alone in the bustling streets of Chengdu, China. Life was brutally hard. With no income, Mrs. Wang resorted to collecting garbage just to feed her child.

But as Yuwen grew, her condition worsened. She cried in pain, gasped for air, and turned purple with exertion. Her mother watched helplessly, heartbroken, as Yuwen whispered, “Mom, my heart hurts.”

“Mom, my heart hurts.”
-Yuwen

heart condition from the hole in her heart

Doctors soon confirmed what Mrs. Wang feared: Yuwen had been born with an undiagnosed heart condition—a serious heart problem that required urgent surgery. Without it, her daughter might not survive. But how could a mother who barely scraped together enough for food ever hope to afford something as expensive as heart surgery? Though she tried everything, Mrs. Wang simply couldn’t afford surgery. And yet, she refused to give up. That’s when Operation Blessing stepped in.

Born with a Hole in Her Heart..But a Future Full of Hope

Thanks to the compassion of our donors, we were able to cover the cost of Yuwen’s life-saving operation. Today, because of friends like you, this little girl who was born with a hole in her heart is healthy, full of energy, and runs faster than anyone in her school. Her mother no longer digs through garbage. She now owns her own small recycling business and can finally dream about the future.

This is more than a medical story—it’s a story of transformation. Yuwen’s dramatic recovery, her mother’s unwavering sacrifice, and the miracle of healing made possible by your generosity. Yuwen was born with a hole in her heart, but today, she lives with a heart full of hope.

You gave this precious girl a new chance at life. Help us save more lives like Yuwen’s. 🙏 DONATE NOW

From Pain to Play: Kervis’s Life-Changing Torticollis Surgery

HONDURAS – Ten-year-old Kervis was born with torticollis, a painful and visible condition where neck muscles shorten and twist his head to one side. For years, this condition robbed him of mobility, comfort, and dignity. It was obvious he would need torticollis surgery. Without it, Kervis would face a life of shame and derision.

“When I look in the mirror, I wish my neck was normal.”
– Curtis

“When I look in the mirror, I wish my neck was normal,” Kervis once said. Other children called him “son of the devil.” He was constantly falling. Painful back cramps made sleep difficult. He longed to play soccer—but even standing could cause him to lose balance.

Kervis lives in Honduras with his aunt, Cindy. After his mother asked for help raising him, Cindy stepped in as caregiver. She works hard washing laundry but simply couldn’t afford surgery. When doctors quoted $8,000 for corrective torticollis surgery, the hope of healing seemed out of reach. “How are we going to get that kind of money?” Cindy recalled.

“How are we going to get that kind of money?”
-Cindy

Unable to Afford Torticollis Surgery, But Not Without Hope

Kervis’s condition worsened with age. Not only did it impact his physical ability, but it also wounded his spirit. His twisted neck made him feel ashamed. His childhood was slipping away. That’s when Operation Blessing stepped in. Our generous supporters made it possible for Kervis to receive corrective surgery—a surgery that would restore both his posture and his joy. “Operation Blessing came to us by the work of God,” Aunt Cindy said. “Everything was fast.”

Kervis’s Incredible Transformation

Today, thanks to friends like you, Kervis’s head is upright, his spine aligned, and his spirit renewed. He can now run without falling. He plays with friends. He returned to school, sleeps through the night, and holds his head high—not just physically, but with dignity. “Now my neck is straight. I can play with my friends. I can sleep well,” Kervis said, beaming. Kervis’s incredible transformation is a testament to what happens when your compassion meets action.

Life Without Shame: A New Beginning

Kervis’s story is more than a medical victory—it’s a celebration of life after hardship.
He is thriving—playing, learning, and living without shame. And through his journey, we are reminded why your support matters. “I love you very much and bless you. I pray for you every day,” Kervis says to those who gave him a chance.

Help More Children Like Kervis

Every child deserves a chance to stand tall. Through your support, Operation Blessing continues to provide life-changing surgeries, clean water, food, and hope to those in need.

Life-Changing Surgery for a Child Born with Bilateral Clubfoot

PHILIPPINES – In the heart of Davao City, a little girl named Shameber faced enormous challenges from the very start. She was born with bilateral clubfoot, a condition that twisted both of her feet inward, making it painful and difficult to walk. For her single mother Norie—who earned just $5 a day—watching her daughter struggle was unbearable.

“People would say cruel things,” Norie shared. “Some even asked if my daughter was worth raising because of her feet.” But Norie’s love never wavered. What she lacked in resources, she made up for in faith. She couldn’t afford treatment, but she never gave up hope.

“People would say cruel things. Some even asked if my daughter was worth raising because of her feet.”
-Norie

Born with Bilateral Clubfoot and Determined to Walk

Bilateral clubfoot is a condition that, without treatment, can leave a child permanently disabled. Shameber couldn’t run or play like other kids. Each step was painful. For Norie, surgery seemed like a dream they would never reach. But then Operation Blessing stepped in.

Thanks to the generosity of supporters like you, Shameber received life-changing surgery and care using the Ponseti method, a proven technique involving gentle casting and minor surgical procedures to realign the feet. “Operation Blessing brought us hope,” Norie said. “They made the impossible possible.”

“Operation Blessing brought us hope. They made the impossible possible.”
-Norie

Walking, Running, Thriving

Today because of your love and care, Shameber can walk, run, and play freely. Her feet are straight, her steps are strong, and her future is bright. What once seemed hopeless has become a powerful story of transformation. “I feel so happy seeing her run,” Norie says through tears. “She’s just like any other child now.” This is more than a medical success—it’s a victory of love, faith, and community that you made possible.

Before Surgery

After Surgery

Life-Changing Surgery Made Possible by You

Around the world, thousands of children are born each year with bilateral clubfoot, and many of their families can’t afford treatment. But with your help, Operation Blessing is stepping in—bringing healing, restoring dignity, and changing lives one child at a time. You make these miracles happen. And every step Shameber takes is a step you helped make possible.

Help More Children Walk Without Pain

Every donation provides children like Shameber with the gift of mobility—and families with hope for the future. Join us in providing life-changing surgery and care to those who need it most.

How You Help Ukrainian War Refugees Feel at Home

POLAND – What is it like for a 15-year-old girl to survive as a war refugee? For Karolina, who lived in Ukraine until brutal Russian attacks forced her family to flee their homeland, it meant starting all over—just one of the countless stories of Ukrainian war refugees. Just five years earlier, her family had moved into their dream home in Ukraine—and Karolina had finally gotten her own room.

But when war broke out, they rushed to Poland for safety. Leaving behind her friends and everything she knew was hard—not to mention having to adapt to an unfamiliar place and learn a new language. There was little privacy in their Polish home, and the only place to study was at the kitchen table. For Karolina, starting over at a new school was overwhelming. She was lonely.

Thankfully, caring supporters like you made her transition easier. Karolina heard about the Helping Hand Training Center in the town of Zabki—a wonderful resource for refugees. There, Ukrainian War Refugees—mostly women and children—receive humanitarian aid daily, such as food packages and hygiene packets—thanks to friends like you.The Center’s educational programs help them adapt, find friends, and hear the Gospel message.

In fact, for the 200 mothers and children who visit the training center each month, it’s the only place in a foreign country where they are surrounded by their own language. They receive physical, mental, and spiritual support, as well. The kids can also play sports, take Polish language courses, and become involved in music lessons and Bible studies—including CBN Animation’s Superbook!

“When I came to the Center, I didn’t feel like the teachers were just teachers,” Karolina said. “They became friends, a support I so badly needed.” You help teens like Karolina feel less disconnected from everything they once knew, while also gaining confidence at school and with their peers. Not only did Karolina grow and flourish, she eventually began working as a tutor for other children—her way of giving back. This also enabled her to earn a little income.

“Volunteering and working as a tutor gave me the opportunity … to learn financial literacy,” Karolina said. “After working at the Center, parents began asking me to hold lessons for their children. Now I work independently as a tutor in math and English.” She added, “May God bless you for your kind heart and generosity.”

Truly, you have helped Ukrainian War Refugees like Karolina by shining a light in the darkness—so they can see a better way ahead.

The Life-Giving Gift of Clean Water

NIGERIA – In the fertile farmlands of Benue State, Nigeria, lies the small community of Tse Yebe. Home to the Tiv people—predominantly Christians and subsistence farmers—these rural villagers thrive on crops like cassava, yams, and oranges. But despite the abundance of natural beauty and hardworking spirit, the community has long battled a heartbreaking lack of safe water. This was until they received the life-giving gift of clean water.

Peace and Ruth, two young women from different parts of the village, became friends while fetching water from the nearby stream—a risky, 30-minute journey they made every day. They knew the water wasn’t pure, but they had no other choice.

Sickness from Unsafe Water

That river brought more than just water. They told us it also brought stomachaches, typhoid, and fear. The overgrown footpaths teemed with snakes, especially during rainy seasons. Carrying the water home was exhausting and scary, but Peace and Ruth had to keep going—until the day everything changed.

Thanks to compassionate friends like you, Operation Blessing drilled not one but two borehole wells for Tse Yebe. Now, fresh clean water flows freely—safe, close by, and truly a life-giving gift of clean water. Peace rejoiced. “I am delighted! We will no longer be walking the distance and climbing the hill from the stream anymore.” Ruth added, “God bless Operation Blessing for this wonderful gift to our village. We are forever grateful.”

For a village of over 100 people, this gift of clean water has transformed daily life. Children can now attend school without the burden of collecting water. They are healthier. And the presence of a local church beside the well reminds everyone of the eternal living water available through Jesus.

Thank you for being part of their story and for offering the life-giving gift of clean water to those in need around the world.

life-giving gift of clean water in Nigeria

A Gift of Healing from an Umbilical Hernia

MEXICO – For most of her young life, Mili lived with an invisible pain: an umbilical hernia that kept her from doing the things other children often take for granted. While friends ran across the playground, Mili sat on the sidelines, watching with longing. Even at home, simple movements brought discomfort.

Her parents spent years searching for answers. Eventually, they were told that umbilical hernia surgery was the only way forward—which felt like a cruel answer because healing was just out of reach. They had no way to afford it. Worry hung over their home like a cloud, darkening Mili’s childhood and shadowing her future.

Healed from an Umbilical Hernia

But that’s when friends like you stepped in. Because of the love of our compassionate family, Mili received the life-changing surgery she so desperately needed. Together, we lit up her world with hope and healing—and gave her back the childhood she was missing.

“I’m so happy because it doesn’t hurt anymore, and now I can finally play with my friends at school,” Mili shared, her eyes full of joy.

Her parents are overwhelmed with gratitude. The burden they carried for so long has been lifted, and their hearts are full of peace. “Seeing her without pain and without worries is a miracle for us,” her mother said. “Now she has a future full of possibilities.”

“Before, she always had to be careful,” Mili’s mother added. “But now she can participate in all activities without any problem. We are so happy for her.”

Dear friend, this is the power of your compassion. A little girl’s dark and difficult journey to overcome an umbilical hernia, is now filled with light. Thank you for shining so brightly—and for transforming the lives of children like Mili with your kindness.

How Hurricane Katrina Sparked a Global Mission of Compassion

Watch the Trailer Here

Click Here to Watch the Full Special Report

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA — In late August 2005, the skies over the Gulf Coast darkened as Hurricane Katrina barreled toward the city of New Orleans. The forecasts were dire. Everyone knew the storm would be bad—but no one knew just how much life would change, or how this tragedy would give rise to a global mission.

When the levees broke, the city fell silent. “No lights, just death everywhere,” one responder recalled. “The amount of need was hard to even describe.”

But that moment of heartbreak sparked something powerful—something still changing lives around the world today.

Friends Like You Helped Launch a Global Mission

In the midst of the devastation, God stirred hearts to respond. That faithful commitment transformed local relief into a global mission—planting the seeds for Operation Blessing’s Global Disaster Response ministry.

Flip phones in hand and boots on the ground, our early teams didn’t yet know that two months of crisis work in New Orleans would become two years of divine assignment. They saw destruction firsthand… but they also witnessed hope, resilience, and the miracle of partnership.

“We were just trying to help wherever we could. There weren’t enough hours in the day,” one staff member shared. “But God kept opening doors.”

What began as one urgent response grew into a full-fledged global mission—reaching disaster zones across the U.S. and around the world. From feeding families in flooded towns, to offering solar light and water filters after earthquakes, Operation Blessing has now helped survivors in more than 90 countries and territories. And it all started with Katrina.

Relive the Moment That Changed Everything

Now, on the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, we invite you to watch a powerful new trailer that tells the untold story—how one storm helped shape a ministry that continues to bring God’s love in times of crisis.

🎥 Watch the Trailer
You’ll witness:

The emotional aftermath of Hurricane Katrina
The birth of a calling to serve in crisis
The power of partnership to rebuild broken communities

As one team member says in the video, “This is a new thing. A new day. A new opportunity to solve a new problem.”

And that global mission continues today—because of friends like you.

Together, we’ve seen how tragedy can be transformed into triumph. You are part of this incredible legacy of hope. Thank you for being there when it mattered most. And thank you for continuing to care.

📽️ Don’t miss this inspiring story—click to watch the trailer now!