A Christian charity is appealing for help to provide food and provisions for people in the Balkans and eastern Europe.
Transform Europe Network (TEN) has sent hundreds of thousands of parcels and hot meals to the region since 1992 following the outbreak of the Bosnian War.
Since then provisions worth over £2.5million have been sent to eastern Europe and the charity has now launched a ‘Harvest for the Hungry’ appeal to mark its 30th year.
James Vaughton, CEO of TEN said:
“Each year, TEN’s partners distribute food to hungry families and widows who rely on assistance. However, the need in 2022 is far greater. Ukrainian refugees need food as they rely on the generosity and kindness of strangers to support them. And a major challenge facing them, and the poorer people in Eastern Europe, is that the war, and the rising cost of fuel, have pushed up the cost of living.
“TEN has always stood with our partners to help them meet the needs of the hungry. The amazing thing about ‘Harvest for the Hungry’ is that it consistently meets the physical, social and spiritual needs of people across south and eastern Europe. Just £15 will feed a family in easter Europe for a week.
“We are grateful for the support of so many over 30 years. In this our anniversary year, we look forward to welcoming onboard many more churches and individuals who want to give, knowing that their donations go to those most in need. Because of our history and our partners on the ground in eastern Europe, we can guarantee that.”
The Bosnian War resulted in 2.4 million people attempting to flee the conflict with a further 2 million internally displaced.
Responding to the need, the charity collected food, clothes and aid from churches across England, and volunteers drove lorries to the war-torn and neighbouring countries. TEN used its links with partner churches in the region to ensure that aid got to those most in need.
Last year, TEN delivered the equivalent of 8,000 meals to individuals and families via just under 30 partner churches.
The charity began in the 1960s under the name of ‘Eurovangelism’, as a ‘heart cry’ response to the desperate plight of Christians suffering under communism in eastern Europe. David Foster, a travelling journalist and evangelical Christian, started writing articles about the amazing believers he came across, and the various trials they faced in living out their faith. Support came flooding in, both financial and prayerful. Eurovangelism was born to support beleaguered European Christian communities.
You can find out more about the ‘Harvest For The Hungry’ 30th Appeal at : www.harvestforthehungry.org