While Africa Inland Mission is not a relief agency, our heart is to help our neighbors and church partners in times of trouble. Whether it’s famine, flooding or conflict, AIM personnel are often in a position to respond in very practical ways in the communities where we serve.

The Famine Relief and Crisis Response fund exists to fund these efforts, providing funding for relief flights, food and shelter, blankets, and other appropriate measures depending on the specific needs of each situation. 

At present, this fund is serving to provide relief to the Zande people of the war-ravaged Central African Republic. AIM’s most recent engagement in CAR began in late 2016/early 2017 when a new ministry team arrived in Zemio for a 2+ year partnership with the Zande church and outreach among the Mbororo people. Sadly, the team had to leave less than 4 months into their ministry – evacuated by mission airplane after a night of heavy gunfire and explosions rocked the town. In June, the violence escalated in Zemio as opposing rebel groups clashed, destroying homes and the church there, and forcing over 20,000 people to flee for safety.

As the situation continues to unfold in CAR, we are anticipating many to be in dire need. AIM is in contact with local church leaders who are providing the latest information on where people have been displaced to, the numbers, and the needs. Our aim is to assist with practical relief. This often means providing such essentials as tarps for temporary shelters, cooking supplies, bedding, and medicines.

AIM’s long history of ministry among and along-side the Zande church and community has forged a bond of unity and love over the years. And right now, we hope we can be a small manifestation of God’s mercy to them.