Brazil Flood Rescue: Helping Victims Amid the Flooding

BRAZIL – Torrential rainfall has unleashed catastrophic flooding across Brazil. The result is areas of the country that are now underwater. Once bustling streets are now only reachable by boat. Homes have been demolished, and sadly, many lives have been lost. The historic deluge has displaced hundreds of thousands of people. In its wake, it has left many Brazilians without access to power, clean water, or basic necessities.

Operation Blessing’s Brazil Flood Rescue Efforts

As the floodwaters persist, Operation Blessing has mobilized its teams to provide critical relief to those affected by this disaster. Despite the ongoing dangers posed by the floods, our brave volunteers are working tirelessly to distribute essential supplies to victims.

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Reaching the Hardest-Hit Areas

“We are surrounded with houses, we are surrounded with businesses, we are surrounded with even, churches that now are completely gone,” said Daniel Castro, an Operation Blessing team member.

Our teams have ventured into the hardest-hit areas. This has involved navigating flooded streets by boat. The goal of these missions is to reach stranded survivors as part of our Brazil flood rescue efforts. In one harrowing rescue, they spotted a cat clinging to a fence, terrified and in need of help.

Pet Flood Rescue in Brazil: Saving Every Life

Without hesitation, the Operation Blessing volunteers rescued the helpless feline, providing it with a safe haven and much-needed care. As the video footage shows, our teams are committed to saving every life, human and animal alike, from the devastating impact of the floods.

“We saw this cat hanging from one of the main gates of a house,” Castro explained. “We were able to rescue it.”

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Bringing Hope to Flood Survivors

In addition to pet rescues, Operation Blessing is distributing vital supplies to flood victims. This includes food, safe water, solar lamps, hygiene kits, and cleaning supplies. Our efforts are providing hope and relief to those who have lost everything. Hope is vitally important, as members of the community can only watch in isolation as their homes and businesses languish under a lake of water.

A Call to Action: Support Brazil Flood Rescue Efforts

As the people of Brazil continue to grapple with the aftermath of this flooding, Operation Blessing remains committed to providing aid and support to those in need. However, we cannot do this work alone.

We are grateful for all the support for our Brazil flood rescue efforts. Your continued support is making these efforts possible. Your generosity is providing families with essential supplies. You are also helping flood victims as they deal with this incredible adversity.

Together, we can demonstrate God’s love and compassion to the people of Brazil during this challenging time. Stand with Operation Blessing as we continue our work. Help bring hope to those affected by this devastating disaster.

Kenya Flood Relief Provides a Beacon of Hope

KENYA – In addition to Texas and Brazil, areas of Kenya have also recently suffered from devastating floods. Over 235,000 individuals found themselves uprooted from their homes. This forced the displaced Kenyans to seek refuge in makeshift camps. The death toll has tragically risen to 240, leaving communities shattered and in dire need of assistance. Amidst this chaos, Operation Blessing emerged as a beacon of hope providing Kenya flood relief.

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Collaborative Relief Efforts Help Provide Kenya Flood Relief

Operation Blessing’s partnership with Orphan’s Promise proved instrumental in efficiently reaching out to affected families. Leveraging existing networks in Nairobi’s slums, we swiftly dispatched aid to those most in need. Peter Kimaru, national director of Operation Blessing International in Kenya, emphasized the critical role both organizations played in flood relief.

Providing Vital Assistance

Operation Blessing provided assistance to over 500 families. Each family received vital supplies, including blankets and a month’s worth of food provisions. This ensured their immediate needs were met. We also distributed water treatment tablets to mitigate the risk of waterborne diseases. In addition, we supplied mosquito nets to offer protection against vector-borne illnesses.

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The Importance of Operation Blessing Partners

As always, we offer a special thanks to Operation Blessing partners. YOUR commitment to providing disaster relief to people in need is a testament to your kindness. While immediate relief has been provided, the road to recovery for flood-affected communities in Kenya remains long and arduous. Without you, the needs of many people could not not be met. Thank you for having a heart to help others in places like Kenya and beyond.

 Hatching Hope for a Future Without Generational Poverty

GUATEMALA – A devoted wife and mother of two young children, Ofelia stood at a crossroads. Household expenses continued to mount while her husband’s daily wage as a field worker barely covered the basics needed for their kids. Ofelia had taken up weaving to help stabilize their income, but sales were slim, and each item barely turned a profit. For now, hope for a future free from generational poverty looked dim.

She held up the colorful garment before her. There was no doubt it was beautiful, but would it earn the money needed to help her struggling family? They had long endured a relentless grind for survival, but now they faced the possibility of being separated from one another.

helping a family overcome poverty in Latin America

Burdened by the weight of responsibility, Ofelia’s husband contemplated a drastic measure. He could leave his family and home in a desperate search for employment opportunities outside of their impoverished nation. The idea of saying goodbye to his wife and children was heartbreaking, but he couldn’t ignore the painful truth that his meager earnings simply could not give his family a sustainable future. Sadly, the best way to ensure that his wife and young children were taken care of seemed to be leaving them behind.

Trapped in a Vicious Cycle of Suffering

Desperate tales like this are woven into the fabric of Guatemalan society—stories of families torn apart by economic necessity and parents forced to make agonizing choices. Facing the cruel reality of generational poverty, should they pursue a better life for their young ones elsewhere?

Ofelia could feel her family slipping away. She turned to God for an answer, for some way to ensure that her children would grow up knowing the love and care of their father.

Then you stepped in and helped answer those prayers—with feathers and eggs!

YOU Are Helping Them Overcome Generational Poverty

You provided the family with a poultry business, a microenterprise designed to help families like Ofelia’s free themselves from poverty—not just for a day or a year, but for a lifetime. By providing cages full of clucking hens, bags of chicken feed, and the knowledge offered through invaluable training, you gave Ofelia and her family more than just resources; you lit a path leading out of the oppressive shadow of generational poverty. Offering a meaningful hand up rather than a fleeting handout, you blessed Ofelia and her husband with the opportunity to free their children from the soul-crushing cycle they had endured through many long years.

Hope for the Future

Now, as the sun rises over the hills of her village in Guatemala, its golden rays fall upon Ofelia’s bustling poultry business. She said, “I collect around 170 or 175 eggs a day and those sales have helped me to buy fruit, juices, and food for my children.” With each egg gathered and every carton sold, your love is on clear display to a family that was nearly broken apart in a desperate attempt to make ends meet.

“I thank God every day that the business is growing,” Ofelia began. “I am grateful to God … and to Operation Blessing and the donors for giving me the opportunity to have a project because it has been a great help.”

During a time when poverty throughout Latin America has created an immigration crisis, your generous heart ensured that Ofelia’s family was able to stay united and work toward a better future for their children right in their homeland. As Ofelia tends to her thriving business, collecting eggs and counting her blessings, your generosity serves as a reminder that the bonds of love—even those shared with a caring soul far away—can transcend borders and boundaries.

On the Ground While Devastating Brazil Flooding Continues

BRAZIL – Even as catastrophic flooding in Brazil continues, Operation Blessing is on the ground providing critical relief to those affected by the disaster. The historic rainfall has destroyed homes, collapsed bridges, and claimed at least 126 lives, leaving more than 337,000 people displaced and without access to power or clean water.

Rapid Response to Brazil Flooding

As one of the first relief organizations to reach the affected areas, Operation Blessing is working tirelessly to provide life-saving aid to those in desperate need. Despite the ongoing danger posed by the floods, our teams are distributing essential items such as food, safe water, solar lamps, hygiene kits, and cleaning supplies to disaster victims.

Rosangela, a flood survivor, shared her experience: “We were very, very surprised, because it happened so quickly. We never thought the water would get as high as it did. There was no time to do anything.”

Providing Hope and Relief to Flood Survivors

The devastating impact of the Brazil flooding has left countless families in need of urgent assistance. Operation Blessing is committed to bringing hope and relief to these survivors during this challenging time.

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As flood survivors struggle to rebuild their lives, Operation Blessing is providing them with the resources and support they need to overcome this crisis. “We left by boat, and we only had a few pieces of clothing,” said Viviane, another survivor. “Any help that comes will be welcome.”

Through the generosity of friends like you, Operation Blessing is able to make a lasting impact in the lives of those affected by the Brazil flooding. We believe that even the simplest acts of kindness can demonstrate God’s love to the people and communities we serve.

Join Us in Supporting Brazil Flood Survivors

Operation Blessing invites you to join us in supporting disaster survivors during this challenging time. Your donation can provide a family with essential supplies like food, water, and hygiene kits, helping them to make it through this incredible difficulty.

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Together, we can show the people of Brazil that they are not alone. Your compassion and generosity can make a lasting difference in the lives of those who have lost everything. Stand with Operation Blessing as we continue our life-saving work and bring hope to the people of Brazil.

Helping Displaced Texas Flood Victims in Need

TEXAS – In the wake of devastating floods that ravaged communities in Cleveland, Texas, Operation Blessing, has stepped in to provide crucial relief. The disaster response team has been working tirelessly to aid those in need, particularly focusing on assisting displaced residents and homeless flood victims.

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A Lifeline for the Displaced

As the floodwaters surged through the area, many found themselves in dire circumstances, losing what little they had. Tammy, a local volunteer who serves the homeless population in Cleveland, witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of the floods on those already facing homelessness.

“A lot of these people have lived out here for several months,” Tammy shared. “They have a livable system, and they work together out here. They’ve lost what little they’ve been able to acquire.”

Bringing Hope to Homeless Texas Flood Victims

Amidst the chaos and loss, Operation Blessing’s team brought hope and relief to those in need. We distributed emergency meal kits, clean water, tarps, and other essential supplies to families along the river and in the displaced homeless camps.

“I prayed this morning. We didn’t have the provisions, and I said, ‘I need the provisions. I’ll be your feet.’ And I pulled up, and Operation Blessing was there,” Tammy gratefully shared. “Their vehicles, they had the boxes; they had the provisions.”

Shawn, a part of the homeless community, expressed his gratitude for your generosity. “We pray every day; God provides every day. And we’re glad to have you folks, and we’re very grateful to receive these blessings.”

The Impact of Flood Relief in Cleveland, Texas

The relief efforts provided by Operation Blessing have been a lifeline for those affected by the Texas floods, not only meeting their immediate needs but also reminding them that they are not forgotten.

“Operation Blessing has been an answered prayer, literally, for us,” Tammy said. “And to know that we are not alone in this. Operation Blessing has come out alongside us to partner with us, to show them God’s love, and to show them that they truly are not forgotten about.”

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As the recovery process continues, your support remains crucial in helping Texas flood victims, especially the homeless and displaced, rebuild their lives. YOU are making a tangible difference with your partnership and support. Your kindness is helping the people who often get forgotten. Please continue to let your light shine and help flood victims in places like Cleveland, Texas.

A Miracle Baby in China

CHINA – Although Zifan’s parents were ecstatic to learn they were expecting their first child, they despaired when they learned Zifan had something terribly wrong with his heart. The doctors told them that without an expensive operation, the child would die right after birth.

Surgery was out of reach for Zifan. His family is part of the oppressed Muslim population in China, and his father’s income as a restaurant worker could never cover the cost. While this story started as a tragedy, the ending was very different. What looked like heartbreak would soon become the story of a miracle baby in China.

With such a grim diagnosis, Zifan’s mother was advised not to carry her pregnancy to term. “But I remember an ultrasound where I heard his heartbeat,” she said. “And when he kicked, it seemed he was telling me, ‘Mom, I’m strong. You should be strong, too!'” Providentially, a woman met the worried parents and told them about Operation Blessing—and your compassion made it possible to provide the surgery that repaired Zifan’s heart.

But I remember an ultrasound where I heard his heartbeat,” she said. “And when he kicked, it seemed he was telling me, ‘Mom, I’m strong. You should be strong, too!'”
-ZIFAN’S MOTHER

Showing the Love of Christ to a Muslim Couple in China

This jubilant Muslim couple was astonished that Christians would come to their aid. “I didn’t expect a Christian lady who was completely different from us to help,” Zifan’s mother said. “But she was very warmhearted.” Through this, you helped to share the love of Christ with their family as well.

Seeing sweet little Zifan bustling about these days, smiling with delight as he plays happily, you’d never know his birth—and health—had ever been in doubt. This miracle baby in China has brought so much joy to his grateful parents, and it’s all thanks to caring, compassionate people like you!

Celebrating Mothers!

PERU – Meet Ruth, a loving young wife and mother who devotes herself to her family and caring for her farm animals in a remote village of Peru. Under normal circumstances, she might not have had the time or resources to travel and seek prenatal care. But thanks to friends like you, Operation Blessing brought care and guidance right to her and other expecting mothers in her area.

Prenatal Training for Expecting Mothers

She received prenatal training and an ultrasound at no cost. As her firstborn is a boy, she was excited to learn her second child would be a healthy girl. After Ruth’s daughter was born, you also blessed her with a wonderful packet of baby supplies. Overjoyed, Ruth said, “We thank Operation Blessing and all the people who make this kind of help possible.”

Providing Texas Flood Relief for Devastated Communities

TEXAS – In the wake of catastrophic flooding that has overwhelmed vast areas of Texas, Operation Blessing is on the ground, providing essential relief and support to affected residents. The relentless rain, which some authorities say has been worse than Hurricane Harvey, has turned streets into rivers, submerging vehicles and homes and leaving families in desperate need of assistance.

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Partnering with Local Churches for Texas Flood Relief

Operation Blessing has partnered with Hi-Way Tabernacle Church in Cleveland, Texas, to distribute more than 14 tons of critical relief supplies, including emergency meal kits, clean water, and home cleanup buckets. Pastor Stokes of Hi-Way Tabernacle Church has witnessed the devastation firsthand. “It was horrible,” he said. “The waters began to go up—record highs, way above Hurricane Harvey. We started getting heavy rain here, and the water had nowhere to go, and homes were being flooded; people couldn’t get out.”

Providing Emergency Supplies and Assessing Further Needs

In addition to providing emergency supplies, Operation Blessing staff are assessing the needs of the affected communities to determine where else they can help. Pastor Stokes emphasized the importance of the relief efforts, saying, “We’ve got meals to get them by for a few days, water for a few days, and supplies to clean for a few days, and then they’ll come back.”

The Impact of Compassionate Giving

The support of compassionate friends like you is making a significant difference in the lives of those affected by the Texas floods. Pastor Stokes expressed his gratitude, stating, “Your gift is working directly with people that are standing there wondering ‘how do I rebuild my life?’ So, God bless you as you donate and sow seed and give—it’s touching the lives of people who will see Christ in that gift.”

How You Can Help Texas Flood Victims

Operation Blessing continues to work tirelessly to provide Texas flood relief and support to those in need. By donating to the relief efforts, you can help provide essential supplies, food, water, and assistance to families who have lost so much.

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Your support can make a life-changing difference for those affected by the catastrophic flooding in central Texas. Together, we can share God’s love and bring hope to hurting families in their time of need.

New Well Provides Refreshment for a Mother’s Soul

KENYA – Laingeso poured the fresh cool water you helped provide over her children’s heads. She recalled how clean, fresh, and satisfying the water from their new well now tasted on her lips. She smiled, maybe even laughed. Thankfully, her children—Khoboso (3) and Thuleyo (10 months)—would be spared the agony she had endured for far too long.

Laingeso’s life had been a constant battle for clean water. It could have been tragic if wonderful friends like you had not intervened. Her family relies on water to drink, cook, and keep their livestock—their primary source of income—alive. They often traveled from place to place just to find enough of this precious resource for their thirsty goats, cattle, and camels. But the recent drought in the Marsabit region of Kenya had dried up most of their watering holes.

They settled with about 430 other families in the Korr villages to endure the worst. Every day, women and children had to carry two or three jerrycans several miles to gather water from an old borehole well in Tubcha. It left little time for other chores and earning additional income.

“It would often take me a whole day to get the water,” Laingeso told us. The water was salty and made cooking difficult. It also caused urinary problems for her family. But she never gave up hope for a better future for her children. “I have always prayed that God will bring us water closer.”

Refreshment from a New Well

God heard her prayers and answered through generous supporters like you! Your love and compassion came to her rescue and helped build a new deep borehole well that provided fresh, clean water to Laingeso, her children, and the 430 families in the Korr villages.

Your generosity also blessed each of the four communities with bathrooms and hand-washing stations. Residents learned about safe sanitation practices so they can create healthier habits that will help prevent further infection and disease.

Laingeso couldn’t contain her joy. “When we tasted this water for the first time, everyone in the village was so excited as the water was fresh, clean and very satisfying.” She added, “Now we fetch water from the taps and go to the bathroom and shower comfortably and there is also the privacy to shower.”

Through this water system and new well, friends like you changed the lives of these communities for now—and for generations to come. “If there was something we could give to show our gratitude, we would, but now only our words and our smiles can express the gratitude in our hearts,” said Laingeso. “May you be blessed, and may the Lord reward your generosity.

Overcoming Bullying From Cleft Lip

CAMBODIA – In the lush, remote villages of Cambodia, a young boy named Keara faced a challenge that extended beyond the typical trials of childhood. Born with a cleft lip, Keara’s condition was more than a medical issue—it was a source of social isolation and bullying.

A Cleft Lip’s Impact: More Than Cosmetic

For four-year-old Keara, the cleft lip was not just a physical ailment; it was a barrier to acceptance among his peers. His father, Saene, noticed his son’s growing self-consciousness and desire to change. Keara’s own brother felt the sting of the cruel taunts hurled at him. It brought him to tears and angered him.

The Stigma of Cleft: Battling Bullying From Cleft Lip

Children in the village would call Keara ‘arche’, the local term for ‘cleft boy’, and would sometimes resort to physical aggression. This bullying had a profound effect on Keara, so much so that his mother feared for his future, worrying about the psychological toll this could take as he grew older.

Hope on the Horizon: Operation Blessing Provides Help

The turning point for Keara came when a local pastor introduced his family to Operation Blessing. Thanks to the generosity of donors, Keara was taken to a city hospital for free surgery to repair his cleft lip. The success of the operation was more than a physical repair—it was a restoration of hope, dignity, and a future free from the fear of social ostracism.

hope for child with cleft lip in Cambodia

Post-Surgery: A Future Without Bullying

The transformation post-surgery was profound. Keara’s lip, once a source of scorn, now reflected the beauty of a child’s innocent smile. The village’s perception shifted, and the taunts ceased. Keara’s parents, overwhelmed with gratitude, no longer had to worry about the heavy burden of surgery costs or their son’s wellbeing.

Your Kindness Helps in So Many Ways

Your kindness did more than just physically heal Keara. You helped his emotional well being as well. The cruel taunts over his lip have stopped. This has not just brought relief to him, but peace to his family. Thank you for your heart to care for others! Please continue to support surgeries that can change lives.