Protecting lives and upholding dignity

Protecting lives and upholding dignity is vital in the work of Alongside Hope. The number of people today requiring urgent humanitarian assistance is more than 300 million. The numbers of those displaced – experiencing violence or seeking food – are increasing at a time when we are seeing less funding and, as we have seen in the United States, abrupt and deep cuts to food assistance, vaccination and health care programs, malaria prevention and life-saving treatment for HIV and AIDS. These cuts increase risk to millions of already vulnerable people, our neighbours around the world.

Several Alongside Hope partners are directly impacted by these cuts. Church World Service in East Africa is one such partner, implementing programs that respond to hunger and malnutrition, support food assistance in conflict zones and help refugees and host populations with sustainable solutions that lead to improved health and food security. The stories of Serima Samira Galmagale and Ntaato Lepurote, two women raising families in a drought-stricken part of Kenya where CWS works, illustrate how a little funding and a lot of compassion provides hope, builds confidence and strengthens the effectiveness of food distribution programs.

We grieve the suspension of CWS’s very extensive and impactful refugee resettlement program in the United States, a program recognized as one of welcome, compassion and successful resettlement of refugees in communities in a new country.

In Canada, we know how important such programs are from the work of many Anglican parishes and Dioceses in Canada. We know how care for refugees brings blessings to all, and an admiration for those who demonstrate resilience despite adversity, giving back in multiple ways to the communities in which they have found safety.

Yesterday, the ACT Alliance issued a statement decrying the cuts. “The policies of the US Administration are having a devastating impact on the most vulnerable populations around the world… We urge the US Administration to reconsider its policies and ensure that humanitarian aid reaches those who need it most.” Alongside Hope stands in solidarity with ACT Alliance (of which we are a member), as well as our other partners in advocating for the protection of humanitarian aid and the dignity of all individuals.

Alongside Hope, as a ministry of the Anglican Church of Canada, cherishes the values embodied in Micah 6:8 – kindness, justice, mercy and walking humbly with God. At such a time as this, wrenching and uncertain as it is, may we continue to protect lives and uphold the dignity of all. With our Board, we are working hard to ensure a steady stream of revenue to support our work, especially during these difficult times. Together, alongside our partners, we remain steadfast in our vision for a truly just, healthy and peaceful world.