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Global Ministries

In wake of the abrupt loss of billions of dollars of U.S. foreign aid, decades of global health and development work is now at risk. Global Ministries has moved to fill some funding gaps through UMC connections to ease disruption of health services where possible.

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Abundant health for all means that vulnerable populations struggling with substance abuse, mental stress, and psychological disorders receive the help they need to live full and healthy lives.
Breastfeeding is a good way for mothers to give their babies a healthy start in life. The Abundant Health Initiative honors World Breastfeeding Week with stories of mothers and babies who thrive with the help of simple and practical health interventions.
During the month of August, follow along as we share stories about the lifesaving work of global health.
From a lab scientist in Liberia to a youth minister in Russia, we celebrate the 50 International Track GMFs who have been sent out for two years of service around the world.
Osio is a village located more than 25 kilometers from Kisangani city. Each year for many years, the population of this village might travel thousands of kilometers to receive medical care.
United Methodist leaders added their voices to the World Health Organization’s warning that with the spread of Ebola to Goma, the outbreak is a public health emergency of international concern.
Global Ministries responds to Ebola crisis in the East Congo, provides training and prevention methods during a time of great need.
Methodist representatives express horror at the military occupation of the Palestinian people following a visit to Israel and Palestine. The delegation plans to maintain a joint presence in the region in an effort to walk in solidarity with those of all faiths who seek justice, peace and equal rights through nonviolent actions.
During the month of July, follow along as we share the importance and impact of UMCOR’s sustainable development work around the world.
Wesley Memorial UMC in Charlottesville, Virginia, discovers that offering sanctuary is more than providing safe space – it’s about finding ways to cross barriers and create community.

Contact Information

Have questions? Send us an inquiry and we’ll get back to you promptly. Please direct all media inquiries to Susan Clark, chief communications officer for Global Ministries and UMCOR.

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Susan Clark, Chief Communications Officer
media@umcmission.org
800-862-4246

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Six Years, No Solution: A 500-Gallon Tank Carries Hope to West Virginia’s Forgotten

McDowell County is one of the poorest in the U.S., and the communities of Anawalt, Leckie and Gary are some of the hardest hit by the current six-year water crisis. All have Methodist churches that are part of the Welch Charge.

To ease the burden of residents who have to purchase many gallons of drinking water weekly, the Welch Charge contacted the West Virginia Conference Disaster Response Coordinator, Jim McCune, for help. McCune’s United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) connection put him in touch with Global Ministries’ Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) program. 

A WASH grant allowed them to obtain a 500-gallon “water buffalo.” The conference disaster response team arranged to fill the portable water buffalo from the Welch water system, the county seat of McDowell, and transport it to Gary, where residents have been supplied with refillable containers. Residents of all three towns can come to get water, and volunteers will also continue deliveries for those who need it. Meanwhile, residents, including church members, continue to advocate state and local officials for a permanent solution to their aging, compromised water infrastructure. Full Story