Your gifts to the COVID-19 Emergency Appeal are making a difference...in the Holy Land
With funds that Outreach supporters sent to the COVID-19 Emergency Appeal, we were able to send $5000 to support Palestinian families in Bethlehem.
As the charitable arm of Bethlehem Bible College---a strategic partner of The Outreach Foundation in the Holy Land---the Shepherd Society was established in Bethlehem in June 1996 when several Palestinian pastors and Christian leaders felt called to extend Christ’s love in a practical way to those in need within their community in response to the Gospel’s call to love our neighbor and care for the poor.
Bethlehem was put on lockdown by Israel in early March as they sought to stop the spread of the pandemic. With an economy that is largely based on tourism, incomes were lost almost immediately and families (both Christian and Muslim) in need soon began to knock on the doors of the college. The Shepherd Society shared a glimpse into the situation they are facing:
We have been approached by people from Bethlehem district for medicine and food. We strive to provide basic needs. People with children are in need of diapers and milk. Children are given priority. For people who are sick with heart problems, diabetes, and more…. we can assist with accessing medication from pharmacies.
We are at a great advantage in that we know our clients are able to discern those most in need and are trusted by the community. We are also able to negotiate with local markets when we make our purchases – some are willing to wait, but many require cash directly in order to purchase more stock.
In addition to physical and economic needs, we at the Shepherd Society have noticed that people are suffering psychologically. They seek encouragement and people to talk to. Last week we began to address this need. We now pray for, and reach out to, those we know of with this need, through phone calls, and written messages and film through our website and Facebook page.
In addition to material support, we need your prayers. It is difficult to see too far into the future, and we survive and provide help for others a month at a time….In this town, where God chose to reveal Himself as a small and vulnerable baby, we know He is with us and understands our pain. Not the smallest need passes His attention. We trust in God’s provision. We trust our friends around the world to stand with us, as we stand with you in prayer.
Click here to learn more about Outreach’s COVID-19 Emergency Appeal and click here to learn about the use of funds already sent to other places and partners around the world because of your generosity.