“Let justice roll down like waters and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.” - Amos 5:24
Hunger is a justice issue. We all need nutritious food, clean water, shelter, education, and health care to survive and thrive. Yet 815 million people worldwide do not have these necessities. God has provided more than enough for everyone, so what is the problem?
The Upstate NY Synod World Hunger Team works to (1) raise awareness of the problem of hunger and poverty in our communities and around the world, (2) serve as a resource for congregations interested in ending hunger, (3) encourage congregations to respond by generously giving to ELCA World Hunger/Disaster Relief, and (4) publicize information about ELCA World Hunger-funded Domestic Hunger Grants for eligible congregations/agencies needing financial assistance for programs helping low-income people in high-poverty communities.
The churchwide office of the ELCA sends to every congregation, four times a year, resources and materials to help raise awareness of the effects of hunger around the world along with tools and suggestions for how we can make a difference. The ELCA also provides “Hunger grants” every other year for ministries on the territory of Upstate New York. The ELCA website is a place to find more information.
Since 1999, the Synod Hunger Team has organized an annual synod-wide appeal culminating in an ingathering of donations at the Synod Assembly. All congregations are invited and encouraged to participate. Our donations make it possible to accomplish our shared mission to offer emergency relief in times of disaster and to bring life and hope to our sisters and brothers living in poverty in the U.S. and overseas. The links and documents for the current year’s Assembly Hunger Campaign are below. Every year in early March new materials and tools are posted.
For additional information, contact mggensler@gmail.com. Like us on Facebook―“World Hunger and Global Mission-ELCA Upstate NY Synod.”
elca world hunger 50th anniversary
Dear Siblings in Christ,
In keeping with this year’s celebration of the 50th anniversary of ELCA World Hunger, your Upstate NY Synod’s Hunger Justice Team invites you and your congregation to participate in “Loaves and Fishes,” inspired by Jesus’ miraculous feeding of the 5000 with only five loaves and two small fish (Matthew 14:17-20)
Your contribution of $500 or more will provide long-term solutions to ending hunger by establishing fish farms and irrigation systems in communities living with food insecurity.
Fish Farm
It starts with a pond, training and a few fast-growing fish such as tilapia. Soon the pond can provide the community with a longtime supply of fish, rich in vitamins, minerals and protein.
Irrigation System
Many farmers around the world rely on rainwater to nourish their crops. When the rain doesn’t fall, an entire community can be vulnerable to drought and hunger. Irrigation systems, coupled with training and maintenance, can help vulnerable farmers and their families become more resilient to the impacts of climate change and give them the tools to protect their water supply.
Bring your donation and tally sheet to the hunger table at the synod assembly. Make checks payable to Upstate NY Synod.
Thank your in advance for your generosity! Your gift, combined with others, will provide food for today and hope for tomorrow.