The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) has joined efforts with HopeChannel International, Inc. (HCI) to mobilize relief for the people of Ukraine. The international humanitarian arm of the Seventh-day Adventist Church will work closely with HCI and Hope Channel Ukraine to deliver emergency supplies for displaced families, children, and individuals in the war-torn nation.

According to the United Nations, several children and many civilians have lost their lives. About 500,000 Ukrainians have fled their homes and crossed the border into neighboring countries since the ongoing conflict began on February 24. These numbers are likely to increase as the hostilities continue.

“ADRA is grateful to work with Hope Channel International, Inc. to support the vulnerable people of Ukraine in this crisis. We stand together with our shared values and commitment to doing God’s work to garner vital relief for the tens of thousands of families in dire need of essential lifesaving provisions," ADRA president Michael Kruger said. “Our partnership will also ensure ADRA and HopeChannel staff and volunteers in the area are prepared to serve communities ravaged by this monumental emergency. Let’s continue to pray for their safety as they engage in this crucial mission.”

HopeChannel International president Derek Morris responded to ADRA’s announcement: “Our team at HopeChannel International, Inc. is privileged to partner with ADRA as we deliver packages and messages of hope to our brothers and sisters in Eastern Europe. Thank you for your generous support and continued prayers,” he said.

ADRA and HopeChannel International, Inc. have deployed additional emergency personnel to the region to coordinate logistics and purchase supplies, including food, hygiene items, and clothing for the displaced people amassing on the border. ADRA workers, university student volunteers who relocated to area youth camps, and HopeChannel Ukraine staff will help distribute the food and provisions.

HopeChannel Ukraine has been part of the global HCI network and broadcasting in the Eastern European nation since 2009. “Today, HopeChannel Ukraine has a dedicated, faithful, and talented team of employees,” Morris said. “Our broadcasting on the radio has a potential audience of 1.7 million, and a real audience of about 105,000, of which 75,000 are regular listeners, according to the survey made in 2021. We also have a potential television audience of 5 million, of which 700,000 are regular viewers. In total, HopeChannel Ukraine programming is viewed more than 3 million times a month.”

About ADRA

The Adventist Development and Relief Agency is the international humanitarian arm of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, serving in 118 countries. Its work empowers communities and changes lives around the world by providing sustainable community development and disaster relief. ADRA’s purpose is to serve humanity so all may live as God intended. 

About Hope Channel

HopeChannel International, Inc. is a Christian television network that offers programs on holistic Christian living and focuses on faith, health, relationships, and community. HopeChannel began broadcasting in North America in 2003. Today, HopeChannel is a global network with 70 channels and growing, broadcasting in over 80 languages. “Sharing God’s good news for a better life today and for eternity!”

The original version of this release was posted by the Adventist Development and Relief Agency.