GFA to rebuild flood survivors' homes

Flood waters in the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka are beginning to recede, yet the emotional and physical devastation of survivors isn't going away with the water. Gospel for Asia has committed to stand by these survivors, offering physical aid and the love of God so they can rebuild a future of hope. Now, GFA President K.P. Yohannan has outlined what this relief will look like.

"Ministering to the survivors of these catastrophic floods is a privilege that God has given us," said Dr. Yohannan. "Right now they need food, water, clean clothing and basic household utensils, which we are already providing. We also know that when the water completely recedes, they will need help rebuilding their lives. That's why we will be in these affected areas for the long term to help them clean up or, in some cases, completely rebuild their homes. We want to replace the livestock that were killed in the flood. We want to help them restore their lives."

GFA Compassion Services teams, already involved in meeting the survivors' immediate and most desperate needs, are preparing to start rebuilding these homes as soon as the situation allows. The teams have already ministered to thousands of families, providing relief supplied through the generous support of Christians in the West.

In Karnataka, GFA teams helped more than 8,000 people in just five districts. Local churches led by GFA-supported missionaries collected clothing to distribute to the survivors.

In one flooded area of Andhra Pradesh, GFA staff visited the families of Bridge of Hope children. They reported that most of these children's homes were destroyed, as were most of the 570 houses in a three-village area. The water ruined vast cotton fields and rice paddies as well.

GFA Compassion Services teams will be providing new homes in these areas and many others. With the help of the worldwide Body of Christ, they will be able to give new hope and comfort to suffering families, pointing them to God's love and provision for them.