Breathless to Boundless After Being Diagnosed with Congenital Heart Disease

CHINA – When little Yang Hui was diagnosed with congenital heart disease at the age of one, her parents saw their world turned upside down. Her father, a welder earning an unstable income, watched helplessly as his daughter could only run about 30 feet before needing to rest. The family faced crushing debt and an impossible choice.

“When we learned that our daughter had a heart problem, we were worried that as she grew up, the hole in her heart would grow too,” her parents shared. “We felt as if there was a time bomb in our hearts that would explode at any moment.” The surgery would cost 200,000 yuan, which is equivalent to about $28,000—an amount far beyond their reach. “Even if our family house was sold, we wouldn’t be able to pay for the surgery.”

Because YOU Cared, Yang Hui Got Surgery

But because of the caring hearts of friends like you, Yang Hui’s story didn’t end there. Through your support, this family found hope they never imagined possible after their daughter was diagnosed with congenital heart disease, and they began to believe again in her future.

Through a special partnership with the hospital, Operation Blessing was able to arrange a lifesaving surgery for Yang Hui. The transformation has been remarkable.

“My daughter can now walk nearly a mile to and from the commissary without us having to hold her,” her father beamed. “She likes to run after the big children in the village and can chase for more than an hour non-stop.”

Living Without Fear of Congenital Heart Disease

With Yang Hui’s renewed strength, her parents can rest a little bit easier. They no longer live with the fear they once carried when she was diagnosed with congenital heart disease, but instead celebrate the miracle of her recovery.

Your compassion gave this family help when they needed it most, and that help has turned to a new, vibrant hope. “We are especially grateful to the donors we have never met for helping us,” Yang Hui’s father said. “In the future, when our lives are better, we will also do our best to help others.”

Operation Blessing Names Drew Friedrich as New President

Drew Friedrich named Operation Blessing new president.

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA (October 2025) PRESS RELEASE — Operation Blessing, the global humanitarian organization dedicated to bringing help and hope to those in need in the USA and around the world, has announced the appointment of Drew Friedrich as its new president. Drew was previously chief operating officer. The appointment was made by Gordon Robertson, former President of Operation Blessing, who now serves as Chairman of the Board.

Operation Blessing History

Founded in 1978 by Dr. M. G. “Pat” Robertson, Operation Blessing has spent nearly five decades providing clean water, hunger relief, medical care, disaster response, and child development programs across more than 90 countries and all 50 U.S. states. In 2024, Operation Blessing worked in 34 countries, responded to disasters in 12 countries including in Somalia, Brazil and the Philippines, deployed to 19 disasters in 17 U.S. states, and distributed over 25 million pounds of food, drinks and relief supplies.

So far in 2025, Operation Blessing is working in 68 countries, responded to disasters in countries including Ukraine, Indonesia, Myanmar, Burundi, Nigeria and Cambodia, as well as deployed to disasters including the Los Angeles wildfires, tragic flooding in Kerrville, TX, and multiple other locations.

“Operation Blessing has always been about bringing help and hope to a hurting world — and that mission remains unchanged,” said Friedrich. “What will be new is how we broaden our reach, increase our capacity to serve, and expand our readiness to meet needs like never before. It’s an incredible honor to step into this role and build upon nearly five decades of faithful service to those in need.”

Gordon Robertson, who served as Operation Blessing’s president since 2018, said he is confident in Friedrich’s leadership for the organization’s next era. “Drew brings a deep commitment to compassion, innovation, and faith — values that are at the very heart of Operation Blessing,” he said. “As Chairman, I’m excited to support his vision as he leads this incredible team into a new season of global impact.”

Operation Blessing Future Under Drew Friedrich

Under Friedrich’s leadership, Operation Blessing will continue advancing its five core pillars — clean water, hunger relief, medical care, disaster response, and child development — while embracing new strategies for innovation, local partnership, and community-led transformation.

“This appointment isn’t about me, it’s about stewardship,” Friedrich added. “Operation Blessing is a global movement of people — staff, donors, volunteers, and partners — who believe that compassion, innovation, and living one’s faith can change lives. I’m simply honored to help guide that mission forward.”

As the organization approaches its 50th anniversary, Friedrich’s vision is to build on Operation Blessing’s strong legacy and expand its reach through unified global strategy and modernized systems that enable greater agility and impact.

“We are stepping into a new season of impact with gratitude for the past, faith for the present, and great expectation for the future. Our founder’s vision continues to guide us; my role is to steward it forward — to keep the message timeless but make the methods timely,” Friedrich said.

Widespread Flooding Devastates Southern Mexico Communities

HELP DISASTER VICTIMS NOW

VERACRUZ, MEXICO – Following days of relentless rain from a powerful tropical weather system, flooding devastates southern Mexico communities and leaves a path of destruction across southern and central Mexico. The hardest-hit areas include the state of Veracruz, where entire communities were overwhelmed as rivers overflowed their banks, landslides crushed roads and homes, and families were forced to flee for their lives.

At least 64 people have been confirmed dead, and more than 60 remain missing. The municipalities of Coatzacoalcos, Minatitlán, Las Choapas, Cosoleacaque, and Acayucan are among the most severely affected. Thousands of residents have been displaced, with many left without shelter, food, or clean water. The neighboring states of Hidalgo and Puebla have also experienced major impacts.

Operation Blessing on the Ground

Operation Blessing’s local team in Mexico City has quickly mobilized, joined by members of the Global Disaster Response team. Together, they are working to assess the damage and bring emergency relief to families in need. As flooding devastates southern Mexico communities, aid workers are racing against time to reach those stranded without resources.

“Recent heavy rains have hit Mexico hard, causing devastating floods across several states,” shared Esteban from Operation Blessing. “One of the hardest hit areas is Veracruz, where families have lost their homes, are struggling to find food, and are facing incredibly tough conditions.”

Advanced teams are currently being deployed to deliver life-sustaining aid to those affected—including food, safe water, hygiene supplies, and other essential items.

Your Prayers and Support Are Needed as Flooding Devastates Southern Mexico Communities

As recovery begins, the crisis is far from over. Search and rescue efforts are ongoing, and the need for emergency relief is growing by the hour. In many regions where flooding devastates southern Mexico communities, survivors are still cut off from major roads and essential services.

“We are asking for your prayers for the families affected, for strength and protection, and for our team on the ground working tirelessly to bring help and hope,” Esteban said. “Stand with us. Support Operation Blessing disaster response. Together, we can make a real difference right now.”

You Can Help Flood Survivors in Mexico

Your compassion can be a lifeline for families who have lost everything. Please keep them in your prayers—and consider partnering with Operation Blessing to bring immediate relief and long-term recovery to those in need.

Refugees in Burundi Face Hunger Crisis Ahead of World Food Day—You Can Help

Help Feed Congolese Refugees Today

Millions Flee Violence in the DRC

BURUNDI – In the aftermath of the Rwandan Genocide, conflict has reignited—this time over the control of valuable mineral resources like gold and cobalt. As of May 20, 2025, the militant group M23 has escalated attacks in the Democratic Republic of Congo, causing over 6 million people to flee for their lives. Many have sought refuge in neighboring Burundi, which has graciously opened its borders. But while they may have escaped the violence, life inside the refugee camps is far from safe. Now another threat looms. The threat of a hunger crisis for the victims who escaped.

Makombe Camp Struggles With a Hunger Crisis Amid Food Shortages

In Makombe Camp, one of several refugee settlements in Burundi, basic necessities like clean water, medical care, and food are in critically short supply. Because of food shortages, a hunger crisis threatens the camp. After a harrowing escape from violence, hunger is now the new enemy. The search for enough food is a daily battle for families—especially mothers and young children.

“Friends, as we approach World Food Day, I’m reminded of the families in the refugee camp of Burundi,” said Bob of Operation Blessing. “The women and children there are facing hardship with a lack of nutrition and regular sources of food. We’re working with our partners, YWAM Burundi and others, to alleviate this suffering and to bring help and hope to these people.”

Operation Blessing Responds With Urgent Support

As World Food Day draws near, Operation Blessing is focused on providing food to the most vulnerable at Makombe Camp. In partnership with YWAM Burundi and others, OB is committed to delivering help and hope to avert this hunger crisis—despite the overwhelming needs.

“Please remember us as this time approaches,” Bob continued, “and wherever possible help us to complete our mission. We appreciate your support. We appreciate your prayers and we ask that you work with us on this mission. Thank you and God bless you.”

You Can Help Avert this Hunger Crisis Today

Your prayers and support are urgently needed. Together, we can stand in the gap for families facing hunger and hardship this World Food Day.

Help Feed Congolese Refugees Today

Clean Water for Graciela, A Clean Water Solution for Life

GUATEMALA – While many 13-year-old girls might spend their afternoons focused on school, friends, or playing sports, Graciela’s daily routine was very different. Her story shows the lifesaving impact of a clean water solution for life, which transformed her family’s daily struggle into a story of hope.

She had a challenging responsibility—to help gather water for her family. Her mother is a widow and works long hours picking coffee beans, so the responsibility of making sure the family has water often falls on Graciela.

“We have to walk twice a day, every day, to a small pond in the mountains,” said Graciela.

A Clean Water Solution for Life and the End of Exhausting Treks

Each time Graciela journeyed to get water, she had to trek through a dense forest and up a mountain. With the danger of snakes, scorpions, and other frightening animals lurking on every footpath, she bravely continued while also fighting fatigue. Unfortunately, the water that she retrieved was also a danger—to her and her family’s health.

“It’s rusty and the flavor is like mud. I don’t like to drink that water.”

There were times when Graciela and her siblings became sick with stomachaches, and sadly, they had to suffer because their mom didn’t have enough money to buy any medicine.

Thankfully, friends like you helped turn the situation around for Graciela and her community. Your outpouring of kindness helped us provide a clean water solution for life that now brings safe water right to their homes.

4,000 Gallons of Fresh Safe Water in a New Water Tank

Thanks to generous friends like you, we built a water tank that holds nearly 4,000 gallons of water. The tank also disinfects the water, so that Graciela’s family and neighbors no longer have to risk becoming sick just so they don’t go thirsty.

Thank you for this abundant blessing that changed Graciela’s life along with so many others, including adults who had never enjoyed clean water before. This clean water solution for life ensures that children like Graciela can now study, play, and grow healthy without the fear of unsafe water.

“I am happy that I no longer have to walk to that pond,” she said with relief. “The water tastes delicious, and I feel very happy.”

Healing Begins After Earthquake in the Philippines

HELP DISASTER VICTIMS NOW

PHILIPPINES — When a powerful earthquake struck the Philippines, Rachel and her three children were thrown into a state of chaos. “My eldest daughter was shouting, ‘Ma! Help me!’” Rachel recalled. “My other daughter, Jean, was running and also crying for help. I told them to sit down, but I was panicking too.”

Jean was injured as she tried to run to safety. “I bumped my head and fainted,” she shared. “Now I feel like it’s always shaking. I’m still afraid to go inside the house.”

The family now sleeps outdoors, like many others in their community, still traumatized by the quake and fearful of what might come next.

Hope Arrives Through Early Trauma Care

Thanks to friends like you, Operation Blessing’s disaster response team was on the ground quickly to bring relief after this earthquake in the Philippines caused immense damage. In Antipolo, Medellin, they set up a disaster medical clinic, where survivors like Rachel and Jean received both physical and emotional care.

Dr. Milyn, a volunteer and mental health advocate, explained the urgency of this work. “The first 24 to 48 hours after a disaster are critical. Psychological first aid can prevent long-term trauma if it’s addressed right away.”

Survivors were coached through breathing techniques and calming strategies. Jean relayed what she learned through our volunteers and encouraged others to stay calm, eat at regular times, and take deep breaths. Rachel demonstrated how stretching and counting slowly helps her rest better.

Relief and Recovery Continue After the Devastation of an Earthquake in the Philippines

Rachel and Jean also received vitamins and medication to support their health while they remain outdoors. And the help won’t stop there.

“We will continue conducting disaster medical clinics,” said Donabelle of Operation Blessing. “We’re also preparing for relief distributions and the installation of a water station to meet ongoing needs in Northern Cebu.”

Rachel shared a heartfelt prayer: “I pray to God that we can go back to our homes, and we will not be constantly running.”

HELP DISASTER VICTIMS NOW

A Lifeline for Earthquake Survivors in the Philippines

HELP DISASTER VICTIMS NOW

PHILIPPINES – Just days ago, a powerful 6.9 magnitude earthquake struck the Cebu province of the Philippines, leaving devastation in its wake. Urgent relief is reaching earthquake survivors in the Philippines through rapid-response teams on the ground, including our Operation Blessing disaster team. The hardest-hit area was Bogo City, where tremors from a 400-year-old dormant fault line suddenly reawakened—shattering homes and families in an instant.

At least 70 lives were lost, including children and a pregnant mother. Hundreds more are injured. And as aftershocks continue to rattle the region, fear and trauma still hang in the air.

Operation Blessing’s Chris Clapano reported from the scene:

“Driving through Bugo and nearby towns is heartbreaking. Entire families are camped outside, too afraid to return to their homes. They’re holding up handwritten signs that say, ‘We need help. We need food and water.’”

Thanks to friends like you, Operation Blessing teams were able to respond within 48 hours. You helped deploy emergency water filtration systems, distribute essential supplies, and coordinate with local leaders to reach communities in urgent need.

But the suffering is far from over.

“Aside from the relief—the water, medicines, and food—I really see the need for trauma care,” one team member shared. “I ask that God will give me His heart for these people.”

YOU CAN SHOW GOD’S LOVE TO EARTHQUAKE SURVIVORS

The need in the Philippines is immense. Families are reeling from loss, and children are waking up to the sound of aftershocks, wondering if another disaster will strike. You can be part of the healing—standing alongside earthquake survivors in the Philippines with practical aid and prayer as recovery begins

You can be part of the healing. Your support today helps provide:

Safe, clean water
Emergency food and hygiene kits
Medical assistance
Trauma care and spiritual support

Please take a moment to pray for these families—and if you feel led, join us in this compassionate response. Your gift helps Operation Blessing continue serving in disaster zones like this, showing God’s love through action.

Thank you for being a light in the darkest moments. Your love is a lifeline.

HELP DISASTER VICTIMS NOW

upplies for Philippines earthquake survivors

Responding to Tragedy in Philippines – Cebu Earthquake

Deadly earthquake in Cebu area of Philippines

Late Tuesday night, a devastating 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck the central Philippines near Palompon and the city of Bogo in the Cebu province. More than 60 lives have already been lost—and many more remain missing under the rubble following the Cebu earthquake.

Entire families are now without homes, clean water, or access to medical care. The aftershocks are ongoing. The need for urgent help is critical.

In the midst of this crisis, Operation Blessing’s Philippines team was among the first to act—boarding a flight with a volunteer doctor and nurse to deliver emergency supplies and assess the needs on the ground.

Operation Blessing sends disaster relief after Cebu earthquake in the Philippines

Now, our Global Disaster Response team is en route with additional support: solar lamps, water filters, and another doctor ready to bring healing. One of our emergency water systems is already running in Northern Cebu—praise God!

But the situation is still dire.  Search and rescue operations are still underway for the Cebu earthquake, and every moment counts.

Help and Hope During Disasters Like the Earthquake in the Philippines

Operation Blessing’s Global Response Team deploys to disasters both in the states and across the globe—like Hurricane Helene, fires in Los Angeles, and the recent deadly floods in Texas. We bring help and hope to those in need in the name of Jesus. Our disaster teams are often among the first on the ground with supplies and aid, and we stay long after the disaster fades from the headlines to ensure that the job is done right.

Thank you for being someone who shows up when it matters most. Please continue to pray—for those who are suffering, and for our teams working to bring hope and healing in Jesus’ name.

Will you help rush aid to families in crisis?

Born With a Hole in His Heart, Lihao Found Healing Through Surgery, Faith—and Jesus

CHINA – Born with a hole in his heart, 10-year-old Lihao from rural China lived each day with pain, weakness, and shame. His heart condition left him breathless and exhausted, unable to keep up with the other children. At school, he was mocked for his frailty. At home, he felt the sting of deep loss—his mother had abandoned the family, leaving him in the care of his hardworking father.

Though his father labored tirelessly as a construction worker and foraged mountains for herbal cures, he simply couldn’t afford the surgery his son desperately needed. Doctors warned that without intervention, Lihao might not live past 20. But the surgery remained out of reach.

Despite being born with a heart condition and surrounded by hardship, Lihao found comfort in writing. He crafted stories of courage and hope, pouring his dreams onto the page. Then, one day, his story took a new turn.

Learning About Jesus from a Friend

A friend told Lihao about Jesus. Desperate and full of childlike faith, Lihao believed Jesus could heal him. He began praying, hoping that the God he had just come to know might hear him. Then came a miracle.

Operation Blessing heard about Lihao’s condition and stepped in to help. They paid for the life-saving surgery he so urgently needed. What once seemed impossible suddenly became real. Lihao emerged from surgery stronger, freer, and full of life.

Operation Blessing paid for the operation

Today, Lihao is healed. He runs, plays, and laughs like any healthy boy his age. And now, his stories are no longer just dreams—they’re true stories of rescue, faith, and healing. He says, “Jesus healed me.”

“Jesus Healed Me”
-Lihao

Born with a hole in his heart and a future full of fear, Lihao now dreams of joining Operation Blessing one day to help others like him. His life is a living testimony: Jesus heals, and help is never as far away as it may seem.

Operation Blessing paid for the surgery. Jesus healed Lihao. His story is just beginning.

You Shine Light in the Darkness After Devastating Floods

NORTH CAROLINA – That’s little Wyatt with his toy saw in the happy picture above. The people of North Carolina have come a long way. 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.