Hope Beyond Borders: A Lifeline for Yosef and Ethiopia's Children in Crisis

“I cried because I had no shoes until I met a man who had no feet,“

Pictured are two amazing children, Yosef and Misgana (with Misgana’s mum and older sister). They have been my sponsored children in Ethiopia for many years now. The internal war, the war in Ukraine and COVID-19 have gravely affected their lives and their country; finding food and other basic living necessities is a daily struggle. Increased inflation, exploitation and corrupt government are leading Ethiopia to the brink of collapse; they declared bankruptcy in December'23.

Yosef's mother sadly lost her battle with cancer in March 2023. I was privileged to be there with them in her last months. My son, who was her sole caretaker, is now all alone, trying to survive and avoid being homeless. I spent many months in Ethiopia and experienced the desperation first-hand. Yosef, who has been in my care since he was eight years old, has grown into a kind, humble, and intelligent young man who now needs a chance to earn an income and see the light at the end of the tunnel.

The original war started in November 2020, In August of 2023, another ethnic conflict emerged, this time in the region of Amhara. There is nothing left for innocent children caught up in the conflict living below the poverty line. Humanitarian organisations have limited access, and northern Ethiopia is considered on the edge of famine.

I thank you from the bottom of my heart for joining me on this journey in the name of humanity, compassion and goodwill.