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World Vision President Edgar Sandoval Sr. talks with mothers who use MUAC bands to check their children’s health.
Christmas is a season that can bring out the best in us, calling us to embody generosity and goodwill. It’s a time when we celebrate God’s greatest gift to the world — His Son — and give gifts of our own to delight the people we love. Yet, around the world, countless children are wishing for something far simpler: clean water, a full belly, and a safe home. In this season marked by hope, we remember that Jesus’ love calls us to bring light into the dark, tough places — the ones where children are still hoping for the essentials of life.
It's a hope that burns brightly in Ethiopia, where World Vision President Edgar Sandoval Sr. traveled recently. There, the community of Habro is struggling to grow food amid a drought. Parents are fearful for themselves and especially for their children, who are missing meals and losing weight — some to the point of malnourishment. But this community isn’t giving up. They’ve been equipped to fight back against the forces of poverty in simple but powerful ways.
“Tell the American people that we’re grateful.”
Today, the community of Habro is taking steps to protect their health and well-being. A group of mothers is using a Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) band from World Vision to diagnose and get help for malnourished children, many who live too far from clinics to receive a diagnosis any other way.
Potluck-style meals are being prepared through cooking demonstrations: Families bring whatever ingredients they have at home to combine with food grown by American farmers. Even amid funding cuts by the U.S. government, compassion is still finding a path to reach hungry families. “Tell the American people that we’re grateful,” they said to Edgar, “because they’re saving our children’s lives.”
At a community cooking demonstration, Edgar Sandoval Sr. helps feed a young girl named Mone. |
It's a vivid reminder that love knows no borders, and that the body of Christ stretches from Ethiopia to the U.S. and beyond. Even in the face of hunger and true hardship, hope stays alive through the generosity and support of partners like you. Each gift becomes an answer to prayer.
As 2025 comes to a close, let’s work together to help children realize their wishes. May we keep our hearts open to those who are waiting with hope for God’s provision.
When you give to the World Vision Fund, you’re equipping children and families to lift themselves out of poverty and grow into their God-given potential. Please prayerfully consider making a year-end gift to help children access what they need — and wish for — most in life.
