An American charity is building homes for the families of 21 Christians who were killed by Islamic State earlier this year.

The charity, Focus on the Family, is assisting the families of Coptic Christians beheaded on a beach, 20 were from Egypt and one person was from Ghana.

Jim Daly, charity president, wrote on his blog: "As you'll remember, these men, all in their twenties, had been in Libya in search of work.

"They were attempting to provide for their impoverished families living in Egypt when they were taken hostage and beheaded because of their Christian faith."

He praised the reaction of the regional director in Egypt, Sami Yacoub: "Their reaction was astonishing.

"A number of them shared how their pain soon gave way to joy."

Mr Daly spoke about the immediate physical needs such as safe housing: "I'm thrilled to report that God has used the construction efforts to bring the community together."

His blog detailed how the families were grateful beyond words.

The Focus on the Family team often meets with the martyrs' surviving wives, children, parents and siblings.

"It's amazing to see how God's presence reigns sovereign even in the midst of a horrible tragedy," he said.