The Arauca and La Guajira regions of Colombia—bordering Venezuela in the country’s “Eastern Plains”—are known for their fertile agricultural land, lush rainforests, and vast rivers. But the beauty of this landscape masks the challenges faced by those who live here.

Continued guerilla conflicts, a mass refugee crisis—stemming from economic and political upheaval in neighbouring Venezuela—and regular flood damage, have contributed to ongoing food insecurity for both local Colombians and migrant families. It is estimated that 94,750 people in Arauca and 438,809 people in La Guajira are in need of food assistance.

Jose Acevedo’s story, like so many others in the region, has often been about simple survival. Wheelchair bound since his teenage years, Jose, now 53, lives with his sister and his elderly mother. Adding to the family’s burdens, recent severe flooding has damaged their home. Repairs are out of reach for the family, who must use most of their savings to buy their daily food.

“Sometimes we have almost nothing to eat,” says Jose, “and my mother will give us the little she has so my sister and I have something. Sometimes the companies will cut our gas or electric service for lack of payment and we have to ask the neighbours for help getting food or water.”

Participants like Jose receive funds for food (about $120 CAD per month for six months) loaded onto cards that they can use when and where they need them. Simple and easy to use, cash cards give dignity and choice to people, allowing them to purchase items for themselves at local shops. That they allow people to circulate money right back into their community means further support for the local economy.

World Renew and ZOA’s distribution of cash cards has given Jose a reprieve from hunger and worry, and the simple joy of shopping has given a boost to his self-esteem. “Thanks to this card, I can somehow help my mother and buy the things we need. Now we are able to eat better, get sick less, and enjoy delicious food.”

By joining us for Canadian Foodgrains Bank Sunday and supporting our work, you can help replace hunger with joy for people like Jose. And, because of World Renew’s unique partnership with Canadian Foodgrains Bank, your gift towards ending hunger can be matched up to 4X!

To find out more about Canadian Foodgrains Bank Sunday, access our church resources, or watch our newest “Ending Hunger” video, go to worldrenew.ca/food.