In Ethiopia’s cold highlands, thousands of families displaced by conflict are living in fragile shelters, clinging to hope. As a Christian organization called to serve like Jesus, ServeNow recently stepped into this crisis—bringing warmth, food, and the reminder that they are not forgotten.
The Crisis in Debre Berhan
In Debre Berhan, one of Ethiopia’s coldest towns, over 30,000 internally displaced people (IDPs) are taking refuge in temporary shelters—some housed in private factories and storage facilities. These IDPs have endured immense trauma, food insecurity, and exposure to harsh elements. Seniors, patients, and children under seven are particularly vulnerable.
The tents many are living in are over four years old and have deteriorated from the sun, heat, and rain. The government has distributed aged corn for food, but it is far from sufficient. International attention has shifted elsewhere with several ongoing armed conflicts and crises, leaving local leaders desperate for continued humanitarian support.
Quick Fact: Over 30,000 people are displaced in Debre Berhan—many of them children under the age of 7.
ServeNow’s Response: Hope in Action
In this challenging context, ServeNow distributed hoodies and food items to over 500 children in one of the three major IDP camps. These small but significant gifts provided immediate relief—meeting physical needs and restoring dignity to families who feel forgotten.
A senior on the scene expressed his gratitude:
“Our hope in this condition is people and organizations like you. The government’s efforts must be supported by donations of kindness such as these. We have lived and passed through many things, but our children and grandchildren need more hope and a future. We all are grateful for your clothing and providing food items for the little ones.”
Local Christian media, including GMM TV, interviewed shelter leaders and evangelical church representatives. Mr. Nigussie, a community leader, shared:
“The tents made of tarp are over four years old now. These people have been experiencing unimaginable situations in their own country. The international NGOs have diverted to the war in Israel and Gaza, and the suffering is immeasurable. Today, everything ServeNow does is a sign of hope, and the bell rings, reminding them they are not forgotten.”
Why This Matters: The Heart of Jesus’ Ministry
Jesus walked among the hurting. He fed the hungry, comforted the sick, and showed compassion to the outcast. As His followers, we are called to do the same. ServeNow’s mission is rooted in this example—to reflect the love of Christ through compassionate action, especially among the vulnerable.
When we serve like Jesus, we restore hope where it has been lost. We remind others that they are seen, loved, and not abandoned.
“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” — Matthew 25:40 (NIV)
What You Can Do: Be Part of the Mission
Your generosity makes this ministry possible. Whether it’s a warm hoodie, a nourishing meal, or a simple vision trip, you can help provide hope and healing in Jesus’ name.
Give now to support vulnerable children in Ethiopia: https://weservenow.org/donate/outstretched-hands/refugee-aid/.
Your gift says: “You are not forgotten.”
