Making a World of Difference this Christmas

Thandolwenkosi is the child pictured on the front of this year’s COCOA (Churches of Christ Overseas Aid) Offering envelope. She is one very happy pre-schooler at Khayelihle Children’s Village (KCV) in Zimbabwe. Her life has been transformed by the nurture she receives at KCV. This includes food, the love of adults and an education. Such a transformation is largely due to the compassionate support of the people of Churches of Christ in Australia.

• Children at Khayelihle Children’s Village, Zimbabwe, to have access to medicine, education, good food and the loving care and support of housemothers. In South Sudan young child victims of war are fed and educated.
• People in Zimbabwe and Vietnam to have access to a fresh, clean and consistent water supply. Health and diet improves because the water is safe. Food can be grown and dignity is enhanced.
• Education projects in Vanuatu strengthen the capacity of schools. Children have equipped teachers and resources for education and learning.
• In Vietnam new employment opportunities are being created, micro enterprise is made possible, houses are constructed and fresh water tanks are built near homes.
• Health projects made possible in India include community education and support for people living with HIV/AIDS and diabetes. In South Sudan Traditional Birth Attendants receive training and birthing kits that directly reduce the infant mortality rate.
• In Thailand young men, who otherwise would roam without purpose or hope, begin to gain dignity and purpose though a soccer program in which they take part as players, coaches and assistant coaches.
• COCOA continues to respond to the unfolding disaster in the Horn of Africa.