If you have recently read my two-part series on Reimagining Tradition: A Modern Thanksgiving Journey and Global Harvest Festivals, you will no doubt detect my predilection for the bounty of new harvests. I am amazed at the abundance of seasonal produce.
I feel compelled, especially during this harvest season, to weave the interconnected threads of the harvest abundance with those of benevolence and support. To celebrate children in distant places by meeting their needs through nourishment and hospitality.
Nutrition is not a privilege confined to a fortunate few. It is a vital necessity with immeasurable impact on a child’s life, as it:
- Fortifies the Immune System
- Guards against Diseases
- Enhances Cognitive Abilities
- Fosters Learning
- Fuels Physical Development
Nutrition serves as the cornerstone upon which a child’s health, happiness and future are built, enabling them to become agents of positive change. By nourishing their bodies and minds, children are emboldened to thrive and make a lasting, positive impression on the world around them.
Nourishment for every child is not solely a matter of charity, but a shared collective responsibility.
As I’ve written before, there is a certain power in gratitude - the expression of thanks for what we have received. Gratitude naturally leads to generosity - a liberality regarding our possessions. An “abundance” mindset, rather than a “scarcity” mindset.
Giving requires sense of readiness and generosity. It’s a trait that must be acquired over time. And, as I have learned, it often grows in unexpected ways.
Malawi Children’s Mission (“MCM”), was formed in 2007 to serve orphaned and vulnerable children in Malawi, Africa. Please take a moment to learn about the team’s unwavering dedication, tireless diligence, and meticulous efforts in serving their foundation. Malawichildrensmission.org
It is through their commitment and collective efforts to go above and beyond for every child, whereby the Foundation is able to fulfill its mission and bring about meaningful change in the lives of the vulnerable children.
MCM’s mission and vision to restoring dignity in local communities starts by doing good works, which leads to good will and allows for good news - that Malawi’s vulnerable and orphaned children are valued and have purpose.
One of the key “Quality of Life Services” MCM provides is nutrition sourced from high quality produce via local farms and by growing produce such as maize.
A staple crop in many regions, maize is crucial for food security and economic stability. However, communities heavily reliant on agriculture often face challenges during maize harvesting season, due to lack of resources, equipment, and knowledge.
Currently, MCM serves up to 350 meals per day, ensuring that children have access to regular nourishment. Albeit there are significant challenges they face in sustaining this effort.
One of the major challenges is the rising cost of maize due to unpredictable weather patterns and the cost of maize production has been on the rise. Though MCM purchases maize immediately after the harvest season, securing the lowest possible price and storing the grain in their newly expanded storage room.
Nevertheless, meeting the established quantity needed throughout the year is exacting.
The Need is Urgent, How do we Answer the Call?
MCM is actively seeking support and resources to address rising costs and ensure a sustainable supply of maize. By supporting the non-profit, we contribute to their efforts in procuring affordable maize, overcoming storage challenges, and ultimately providing consistent meals to the children.
I hold dear, heartwarming memories of MCM, where the little ones always exuded pure delight. There were no tears or screams, no conflicts among the children-just an ambience of unbridled joy, reading, storytelling, holding, and shared meals. When the time would come for us to depart the premises, they would sing a farewell melody they had learned, waving goodbye with radiant smiles. Witnessing the sheer bliss and fulfillment of these children was truly gratifying.
Though my intention was to serve them, I found myself profoundly blessed, uplifted, and rewarded through the privilege of ministering by the opportunity to minister to their needs.
Children possess incredible resilience, capabilities and potential. By providing them with knowledge, skills, and support, we are essentially equipping them to become future leaders, advocates, and change-makers who will shape a more benevolent world.
Together, we possess the productive resources to make a difference where every child’s potential is nurtured, and their dreams can take flight.
Thank you for your unwavering support and sharing this noble calling. Together we can design a world where the well-being of every child is upheld, for they are the bearers of belief, architects, and innovators of a positive tomorrow.
Click on the following links to learn more about how to donate to MCM or about the great work being done for children in need.