Barnabas helps feed over 1,000 poor Christian families in Pakistan

Barnabas Fund is helping to transform the lives of impoverished Pakistani Christians by providing monthly food parcels for over 1,000 families.

The number of families receiving support from our feeding programme has almost doubled this year; an additional 564 families have joined, taking the total up to 1,171.

The food parcels help this Christian man to feed his family

Almost all Christians in Pakistan belong to the very poorest section of society, with many living a hand-to-mouth existence. Prices are rising daily in the country because of political and economic instability and the repercussions of last year’s devastating floods. At this time of instability, our monthly food packages give the families the security of knowing that they will have something to eat.

One young widow, whose husband died last year, leaving her and their young son in a state of extreme poverty, was overcome with emotion as she expressed her gratitude to a visiting Barnabas Fund staff member. She said, “Thanks to this support we are surviving!” As well as covering their basic food needs, the provision is making it possible for the boy to stay in school.

This elderly couple no longer have to beg in order to eat

An elderly couple, who do not have any children or relatives to help them, no longer need to beg after being included in our feeding programme. Health problems and their advancing age mean they are unable to work, so have no income to support themselves.

Transforming circumstances

The parcels cover almost half of the Christians’ monthly food needs, freeing up some of their limited income, which can then be used to improve their circumstances. This includes schooling for children, clearing debts (often inherited from previous generations), starting new businesses and paying medical bills. Over time, the food programme is helping Pakistani Christians to transform their lives.

Families typically require support for two or three years so that they can pay off debts and start building up some savings.

In one group of 58 Christian families who receive support from the food programme:

• 5 have started a small business
• 5 have been able to pay medical bills
• 6 have completely paid off their loans
• 20 have been able to send or keep their children in school
• 21 have bought livestock to supplement their food intake and provide income.

Give Today

If you would like to help feed a needy Christian family in Pakistan, please send your donation to project 41-331 (Feeding Christian families).The cost per family is £17 (US$28) a month. A sponsorship programme is available for supporters who can commit themselves to regular help.

Barnabas Fund has a separate sponsorship programme, costing £30 (US$45; €35; AU$54; NZ$65) a month, for Pakistani Christian families who were affected by the flooding of 2010. This provides essential food supplies thereby freeing up the little money the family has for other needs, such as building materials, replacing lost possessions, medical care and education. If you would like to support a flood-affected Christian family, click here to Donate or contact your nearest office and we will send you a Direct Debit form. Supporters of this scheme receive a twice-yearly newsletter.

To make a one off donation online using our secure server. Donate

Alternatively, you can give regularly here Regular Donation or by contacting your nearest regional office.

If you prefer to telephone, dial: 0800 587 4006 from within the UK or +44 1672 565031 from outside the UK. Please quote project reference41-331 (Feeding Christian families).

If you prefer to send a cheque by post: Click this link for the address of our regional office. Please quote project reference41-331 (Feeding Christian families).

For a quick donation of £3.00 by SMS (see terms and conditions here) text Barnabas/331 to70007 (Please note: This facility is presently only available to UK supporters)