Story number 1 for 26 May 2000

We begin today in the hardest-hit, drought-affected area of Ethiopia where the famine victims are finally getting the help they need. MNN’s Greg Yoder is in Ethiopia and files this report. “It’s a tense area when it comes to Christianity because of this Muslim culture, but Food for the Hungry is now able to begin their work among the Somali people near Jijiga. FH is partnering with SIM International and another local humanitarian group. Food for the Hungry’s Roe Ann Wood says this agreement will allow them to open a feeding center. “These are nomadic herders and they are extremely malnourished, starving people, so they’re very susceptible to disease right now. So, what we would like to do is open this feeding center to start feeding them and stabilize the situation.” According to Food for the Hungry’s Ethiopia Country Director Thomas Stocker, this will allow them to continue their goal of feeding physical and spiritual needs. “In the area of Jijiga, as you know, it’s predominately Muslim. But, we will make sure that the staff that we bring have a commitment to a holistic ministry.” Plans are also in place for long term assistance as they prepare to restock cattle, sheep, and camels. Greg Yoder, Mission Network News, Ethiopia.” Your gift of 100 dollars will provide a family of five with food for five months. Call 1-800-the number two, HUNGER.