May 2024

Resolve, Recovery and Resilience

HEALING BROKEN BODIES, SPIRITS AND LIVES

As the war in Ukraine enters it's 11th year (the 3rd year since the full-scale invasion by Russian forces), much of the world has become indifferent or even irritated with conversations about aid to the country.

But the battle we fight daily to survive is very real, dangerous and heart-wrenching.

Enemy troops attack civilians, residential homes, schools, hospitals, parks, shopping malls and train stations every single day and without sufficient Western support, there isn't enough air defense to stop them.

Terror and tears are a daily existence for everyone, everywhere.

Attempting to live a partially normal life between the nightmares of air raid sirens takes a toll on one's spirit. But we will never stop bringing help and hope to the children and families of Ukraine.

You can help save lives today! Learn more here: Ukraine War Relief

TRAUMA AND KIDS WITH PTSD

Continuous improvements and upgrades are in process at Camp Willow Park to the very last minute. 

Ten back-to-back youth camps are planned for this year for children who have been traumatized by war, most of whom have severe cases of conflict related PTSD.

These are small children terrorized by what they have seen and experienced in a war that no one can explain.

The staff and volunteers at these camps provide peace, healing and hope for these young Ukrainians.

Consider sponsoring a child to one of these camps: Mission 823 Youth Camps

WIDOWS AND ORPHANS

Just a somber reminder that very young brides, grooms and newly orphaned children are being separated from their loved ones by the thousands because of this war.

We are doing everything that we possibly can to support these broken families as they learn to cope and find life again.

Mission 823 is currently supporting two new families who have lost husbands and fathers to help them transition.

Pray for the widows and orphans of Ukraine.

If you have a special place in your heart for these wounded families, please assist us by donating to Ukraine.

"Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world."  James 1:27

FEEDING HUNGRY CHILDREN

Mission 823, in collaboration with our committed partners, delivers hundreds of nourishing meals to children and families each week. 

Your unwavering generosity and faithfulness are crucial in this mission, particularly for those living in areas affected by conflict.

These families are often isolated from standard support systems due to daily threats, making our efforts even more vital.

Thanks to your support, our church partners can provide regular, nutritious meals to these children, ensuring they have access to essential sustenance despite the challenges they face.

Your contributions are a beacon of hope in these difficult times, making a profound impact on the lives of Ukraine's most vulnerable.

Thank you for standing with us in this important work.

CHURCHES ARE KEY TO RECOVERY

The war is not just a brutal physical, political, and personal struggle—it is deeply rooted in spiritual conflict and heartbreak.

Amidst this turmoil, the churches in Ukraine and around the world offers a vital sense of purpose, refuge, and community.

These faith communities play a crucial role in providing spiritual recovery on a daily basis, helping people navigate through their challenges.

This is why Mission 823 emphasizes close collaboration between U.S. and Ukrainian churches.

While U.S. churches support these efforts from afar, Ukrainian churches provide on-the-ground assistance and connection.

By uniting these efforts, Mission 823 ensures that both spiritual and practical needs are met. We are profoundly grateful for all our church partners who make this possible.

SUPPORT FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

Four brand new STAT packs, also known as Jump Bags for paramedics, have arrived at Mission 823 headquarters in Ukraine. 

These packs are filled with essential supplies to help First Responders address injuries from explosions, shrapnel, and collapsing buildings.

The life-saving gear, valued at over $8,000, is set to be delivered to front-line fire stations in the coming weeks.

Shawn Sullivan, Rick Melero, and our dedicated team will be handling the delivery.

Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers for their safety as they undertake this crucial mission. We will keep you updated on their progress and the impact of these supplies.

DISC GOLF IN UKRAINE

Shawn, an avid disc golfer, was thrilled to learn that the sport is slowly gaining popularity in Ukraine despite the ongoing conflict. 

Disc golf offers focus, discipline, and physical activity, making it a therapeutic outlet for children dealing with trauma.

In response, Mission 823 reached out to world champion disc golfers and was excited to receive a commitment to build a top-notch course near our camp facilities in western Ukraine.

In June, Shawn will bring 2 target baskets and 100 discs to help introduce and expand the sport.

We look forward to training a new generation of players and providing a much-needed escape from their daily struggles.

We invite you to join us for a round or consider hostin a Disc Golf Fundraising Tournament in your area.

Contact us to collaborate on this project and support our efforts.