Here in the United States, we have easy access to garden tillers, a variety of good garden seeds, and all kinds of garden accessories. In many other countries, these “luxuries” are unavailable or unaffordable. Families rely heavily on their gardens for their source of food. Men depend on their tools to make an income. When a garden lies uncultivated or a father’s tool breaks down, families struggle for daily existence.
Seeds
Gardens are a common sight across Eastern Europe. Ihor and Ruslana, a couple from Ukraine, estimate that 75% of the food they eat comes from their own garden. However, many villagers don’t have access to quality garden seeds with a good germination rate. If that works, CAM responds to this need by distributing thousands of pounds of high-quality vegetable seeds each year to villagers in Eastern Europe. Bibles and Christian literature are also distributed with the seeds, enabling the seed of God’s Word to be sown in hearts and lives. In some areas, a small preaching and singing service is held before the seeds are distributed. After a recent seed distribution in Ukraine, a staff member shared, “The seeds have been very well received this year. It seems to be a bit of hope for many people. Pray with us that the spiritual seeds being sown with the seed packs will also find good soil.”
Tillers
Tillers help increase a garden’s production. In turn, it helps a family have plenty of food and, in some cases, extra vegetables to sell. In many places, tillers are shared by more than one family. In a village in Kazakhstan, a tiller was provided for Damir* and Safiya, a couple facing difficulty. Damir had surgery, and Safiya was unable to work in their garden. With only a small allowance, they could afford little. Safiya said, “Our garden feeds us; it may not be very big, but we eat from it all summer and prepare preserves for winter.” They were grateful for the tiller and relieved that they wouldn’t need to hire someone to cultivate their land.
Tools
Alexey Molodkov works as an electrician in Kyrgyzstan. His monthly salary was not enough to support his growing family of ten. He started a side job to make more money, but his old hammer drill gave out. Plans to quickly save up money became unrealistic. Alexey was given money to buy a quality power tool, and with the small amount he saved, he bought other equipment for his work. He expressed that “help came at the perfect time.” Many men like Alexey are skilled in a trade. However, many do not have the means to start a business or buy new tools when theirs break down. Providing tools for mechanics, builders, woodcutters, and other skilled workers helps men provide for their families. Seeds, tillers, and tools are in high demand in Romania, Ukraine, and other countries where CAM works. If you wish to help, your support will be greatly appreciated! Thank you and may God bless you!
