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Dear Friends,
Last weekend, the intensity of the war increased in Lebedyn. The centre housing internally displaced people was threatened by bombs, forcing a rushed evacuation. Many residents were relocated to unsuitable living conditions as a result. Fortunately, the anticipated bombing did not occur, and most have now returned to the centre due to the poor conditions of their temporary accommodations. The team is doing everything possible to assist during this challenging time.
Elsewhere in the region, the conflict continues to escalate, and a kindergarten nursery in Sumy city was bombed. Numerous children sustained injuries, though these incidents are currently not being covered by the news.
Previously, we communicated that, through our partnership with Mission Eurasia, we secured a substantial number of wood stoves intended for heating and cooking purposes. These stoves were distributed to families most in need; however, there has been a shortage of suitable firewood. Local forests have been sold for fundraising, eliminating the possibility for residents to gather their own firewood. Bohdan recently engaged a Mennonite charity, which, beginning Monday, delivered two truckloads of wood for the burners. The team visited homes throughout the region to distribute the firewood, an effort that required significant labour and travel but resulted in many families now able to use their wood stoves effectively. Unexpectedly, today the charity provided an additional two truckloads of firewood as well.
Your continued generosity has enabled us to buy enough food to assemble an additional 200 emergency bags, each capable of supporting a family of four for one week. Each bag also contains a copy of the Gospel of John.
We distribute these bags thoughtfully, ensuring they reach those facing the most urgent needs. Unfortunately, the number of people needing assistance is increasing. In just over a year, the cost of the food we include in these bags has more than doubled—another consequence of the ongoing war. We also still have ongoing supply issues in getting flour and yeast for the bakery.
Several older teens are developing their Christian faith impressively. They demonstrate remarkable care and compassion for those around them, and their understanding of the Bible is both profound and evident in how they live. Despite ongoing sirens and blackouts, all regular meetings continue, and attendance increases each week, which is truly encouraging.
This Sunday, our church will join with another local Baptist congregation for a youth-led service. Bohdan is looking forward to this event, as our church was originally established by Sergey during his tenure at that congregation many years ago. This collaboration demonstrates unity within the church community at a particularly important time.
The team is preparing for six camps this summer, which will begin in just over three weeks. Each child’s attendance costs about £35, covering nutritious meals, access to resources for crafts and fun activities, puppet shows, a gift for every attendee, and, importantly, support and care from the team when the children need it most.
According to the spring camp report, one young girl asked her leader for hugs, reflecting how much children are longing for attention—especially since many men are away fighting and women must work to provide for their families. Whilst we can’t hug every child, we aim to create a safe and welcoming environment where they feel valued and loved. Through these six camps, we hope to reach more than 500 children and youth. Any support you can offer would be sincerely appreciated.
Thank you for your continued support and encouragement.
Every blessing.
Peter Martin
Founding Director of Hope Lebedyn
