TEAR Correspondent - Autumn 2012 by Tearfund NZ

TEARFUND.ORG.NZ

ISSUE / AUTUMN 2012

CORRESPONDENT FIGHTING THE HUNGER BATTLE PAGE 5

FOOD JUSTICE

TOURS PAGE 12

PAGE 8

SLAVES: A disposable commodity TRAPPED: Bonded labour can bring a life time of misery for parents and their children.

It has been over 200 years since William Wilberforce and the British Anti-Slavery Society abolished slavery but today there are more slaves in the world than in his day. Keith Ramsay investigates modern-day slavery.

ll countries in the world have made slavery illegal since 1807, with Mauritania being the last country to abolish the trade in 1981, and criminalise it in 2007. While this is worth celebrating, the abolitionists would turn in their graves if they knew that today the slave trade is still a thriving enterprise. Abolition of slavery means little in countries with high levels of poverty. An estimated 27 million people are enslaved around the world. One expert

“The price of a modern-day slave is at an historic low, fetching only US $90.” The reason for the price slide is a boom in the world’s population, especially in developing countries. This has turned human beings into a cheap commodity. Bales says, “If they get sick, what’s the point of paying for medicine; it’s cheaper to let them die and acquire a new one.”

Bonded labour While not the most profitable of slaves, those sold into bonded labour make up

Today’s slaves are like Styrofoam cups – they are cheap to replace if damaged. on modern-day slavery, Siddharth Kara, says the profits generated by all forms of slavery in 2007 were about US $91.2 billion. That is second only to drug trafficking. The weighted average annual profits from a slave in 2007, was US $3,175, with a low average of US $950 for bonded labour and US $29,210 for a trafficked sex slave. Life is cheap in these countries. According to another slavery expert, Kevin Bales, 200 years ago a slave cost about US $40,000 in today’s money (adjusted for inflation).

the majority of those enslaved today. The International Labour Organisation estimates at least 9.3 million are in forced labour in the Asia-Pacific region, the majority in debt bondage. Poverty and people prepared to exploit the desperation of others, lie at the heart of bonded labour. It is an economic crime. People are enslaved to make a profit. They fall into slavery because they are economically vulnerable. A trafficker comes to a village offering jobs. Often the villagers don’t trust the

PICTURE / MANOOCHER DEGHATI / IRIN

recruiter but desperation forces them to cling to hope that he is genuine, says Bales. Without land or education, the need for cash for daily survival forces people to sell their labour in exchange for a loan. The interest rates are so high that they can never pay it back. This traps the borrower in perpetual slavery. This can include their whole family and if the debt isn’t paid, successive generations are trapped in bondage. Children as young as six often work hard in quarries or brick kilns and never get an education. They are locked up at night so they can’t escape, and they are beaten and abused. They don’t even get a day off. They are fed little but charged for their food and this inadequate shelter.

What will it take to end slavery? However, Bales says there is reason for hope. “The slave trade has been pushed to the edges of society, and it is on the precipice of its own extinction waiting for us to give it a big boot. While there are more slaves today, the good news is that a smaller fraction of the world’s population is enslaved than at any time in history.” Because slaves are often found in the poorest countries, it does not cost much to give them their freedom. Bales estimates it would cost a mere US $10.8 billion dollars to free the 27 million slaves in the world to a level of

‘sustainable freedom’. That is equivalent to the USA’s annual expenditure on blue cheese. Sustainable freedom includes the cost of walking alongside freed slaves until they are economically independent and ensure they are not revictimised. Organisations working to set slaves free never buy their freedom. If slave masters are paid, they have money to buy more slaves; it perpetuates the problem. “That is like paying a burglar to give you back the TV he stole from you; we would be abetting the crime,” says Bales. They work with the authorities to rescue and look after the victims, and through the court systems, prosecute the slave owners. Christians can pick up the baton from the likes of Wilberforce and put their efforts into stopping the global slave trade through prayer, raising awareness, speaking up for the oppressed and by giving to TEAR Fund’s programmes which are aimed at setting slaves free and bringing the perpetrators to justice. Read more about our antitrafficking programmes on page 4.

What can you do to help end slavery? • Support TEAR Fund’s anti-trafficking programmes in Nepal and South Asia. • Pray for victims and those working for their release. • Advocate and raise awareness. • Sponsor a Child.

PO Box 8315, Symonds St, Auckland 1150, New Zealand • enquiries@tearfund.org.nz • 0800 800 777 • tearfund.org.nz

2 | TEAR CORRESPONDENT

The ‘True Fast’ The Editor

his issue of the Correspondent focuses on the idea of the ‘True Fast’ revealed in Isaiah 58. We find in this chapter of the Bible that the Israelites are going through the religious motions of fasting, but God tells them it is not enough to fast but that their lives and heart attitudes have to be right before Him too. God tells them exactly what He expects. Isaiah 58:6 “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?” As we lead into Easter and the time of Lent, we are encouraging Christians to adopt the ‘True Fast’ and help TEAR Fund to “loose the chains of injustice, untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke”. As you fast, we ask that you pray for an end to exploitation and injustice and perhaps give towards TEAR Fund’s anti-trafficking or hunger prevention programmes. You may be able to donate the money to these programmes, that you would normally spend on the thing you are giving up for Lent.

Slavery Despite the abolition of slavery in every country, slaves still abound. Some estimate that there are more slaves now than in the history of the transatlantic slave trade and that the price of a slave is only a fraction of what they used to cost. Bonded labour is a huge industry and is only part of the human trafficking problem. Women and children trafficked

PICTURE / MARCUS PERKINS / TEAR FUND UK

POOR WANDERER: TEAR Fund is helping those displaced by famine in the Horn of Africa. for sexual exploitation is the most lucrative; a trade worth an estimated $US 32 billion. TEAR Fund works with partners to help stamp out this scourge in several ways. Poverty is at the heart of the issue, and TEAR Fund works with vulnerable communities in Nepal to increase household incomes to ensure that economic desperation does not lead parents to send their children with traffickers. Our partners also educate communities on the tricks used by traffickers, so they don’t fall victim to exploitation. One of our partners, International Justice Mission, works with authorities in South Asia to free victims from trafficking, prosecute the perpetrators and rehabilitate and care for the victims. Isaiah 58:7 “Is it not to share your food with the hungry...” Verse seven tells us that the ‘True Fast’ involves, sharing your food with

the hungry. At TEAR Fund, supporting communities to insulate themselves from hunger is a big part of the work that we do. This needs a long-term approach. For example, in 2002, TEAR Fund supported communities in Malawi following flooding which wiped out crops and led to widespread hunger. This was followed by long dry spells, which pushed the country into famine. With our on-going assistance, the communities we work with are well placed to feed themselves and have a surplus to sell. They also have reserves to help counter extreme weather changes. Malawi has almost doubled its agricultural productivity since 2005, turning the country into a net food exporter after decades of famine and relying heavily on food imports. The bumper harvests are earning more income for poor farmers. “...and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter - when you see the naked, to clothe them...?”

Inside Out T

EAR Fund is more than a charity. It is a movement made up of people like you and includes our courageous partners in the developing world as we stand together in solidarity as a Christian movement of faith and hope. Together we are convinced the world can look different and can be shaped by the values of the Kingdom. We are Christian optimists grounded on the imperative of God to Isaiah, that we are all called to: ‘Seek Justice and encourage the oppressed.’ This issue of the Correspondent is packed with the good news of the work we are doing and progress we are making together. I’d like especially to ask you to review last year’s accounts that are on page 9. While government funding is down,

our donations from supporters (even in recession and the Christchurch earthquake) has remained strong. Among the highlights of this financial year was your generous help to grow microenterprise programmes in Cambodia and the Philippines, which have helped thousands of poor families to economic independence. Your support brought water for drinking and irrigation to farmers and villagers, as well as literacy to poor women in India. You have rallied behind us with child sponsorship and helped us fight the scourge of child sex trafficking in Asia. Hunger prevention is another area in which your help was vital. I was honoured to stand with Mongolian herdsmen and see the pride they had in their hunger prevention programme you helped create. On behalf of the people of Pakistan, I want to thank you for your generous support of almost $1 million for flood relief. The restructuring of the New Zealand aid programme has had an impact on our funding. Previously, we were ‘bulk funded’ with an assured block grant. The new allocation is based on a single project focus requiring a demonstration of economic development, replacing the decades-old ‘poverty alleviation’ perspective. TEAR Fund has always

incorporated economic development in its programmes, but we believe poverty alleviation must be addressed first, rather than relying on a trickle down that never reaches the poorest. TEAR Fund has had a policy of economic independence and has never allowed more than 20% of income to come from the government. That has meant that reduced government funding has not required the radical restructuring many other agencies have faced. In response to February’s Christchurch earthquake, TEAR Fund provided trauma counselling kits for churches and also funded some respite assistance for impacted youth and children, so they could have time out at camps. Here at TEAR Fund, we were all humbled by the fact that even facing the disaster, the people and churches of Canterbury continued to remember our global neighbours by giving. This was inspiring, and something I will personally never forget. In closing, thanks for being part of this movement for Christian action and justice on behalf of the poorest. In Christ whom we love and serve,

TEAR Fund is there when disasters strike, helping people left without homes, adequate clothing or food and clean water. In the Horn of Africa, TEAR Fund’s partner has been giving food and shelter and clothing to many of the displaced millions who have been forced from their homes, land, crops and livelihoods by hunger and conflict. Many of you are supporting this work, but beyond the immediate and desperate needs, our partners are looking at long-term strategies like those achieved in Malawi and northern Ethiopia, to help prevent famine from returning to the region and to help the displaced return to their homes. Please embrace the ‘True Fast’ in the lead-up to Easter and help see God’s vision implemented on behalf of the poor and oppressed of this world.

How you can take part in the ‘True Fast’ GIVE to a TEAR Fund: • Is 58 Anti-trafficking programme. • Is 58 Hunger Prevention project. • Disaster Relief Programme. • Sponsor a Child. PRAY • For victims of trafficking. • For the hungry and displaced. • For the success of TEAR Fund’s programmes. • For those working in dangerous situations to stop traffickers and bring them to justice. ADVOCATE: • Raise awareness of poverty issues. • Raise awareness of modern-day slavery. • Shop ethically; don’t buy products made by sweated labour.

ISAIAH 58: “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? 7 Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter— when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? 8 Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard. 9 Then you will call, and the LORD will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I.” 6

PO Box 8315, Symonds St, Auckland 1150, New Zealand • enquiries@tearfund.org.nz • 0800 800 777 • tearfund.org.nz

Letters to the Editor T hank you to all the people who sent in encouraging emails about our ‘new-look’ Correspondent. As an organisation we hope to engage with our readers on a deeper level, and we value your input. If you would like to write to us about some of the issues raised in the Correspondent we would love to publish your thoughts and respond to any questions or comments you would like to make.

Technical details All letters should be less than 250 words and have full-contact details. Letters may be edited or abridged. All correspondence can be sent to PO Box 8315, Symonds St, Auckland 1150, addressed to the Editor of the Correspondent or can be emailed to enquiries@tearfund.org.nz

The Hands and Feet of Justice Aucklander, Troy Moselen has been serving as an intern with TEAR Fund’s partner, International Justice Mission, which is dedicated to setting people free from slavery and exploitation and prosecuting those responsible for their misery. Troy shares his story of six-year-old Chettu. by Troy Moselen

e giggled and gleefully shrieked as I lifted him towards the ball whizzing through the air. Judging by his size I assumed he was three or four years old. His name was Chettu*, a six-year-old who was recently being forced to make bricks in a kiln alongside his father; trapped in an illegal system of bonded labour. His smile beamed through his decayed teeth as he fumbled the rugby ball passed to him. He showed no concern for the dust on his hands and knees or the soiled condition of his clothes, for today he is free. Late last year IJM and the local government conducted a rescue operation at a small brick kiln in an undisclosed region of India. Government officials and police accompanied us as we entered the kiln to rescue a family of six trapped inside. Their expressionless, distant faces told a story of hardship and suffering, of a life I knew nothing about. I felt like an intruder cataloguing something foreign; something completely outside my realm of existence. I was

‘TRUE FAST’ PRAYER Merciful Father We live in a world full of injustice but pregnant with possibilities to see the chains of that injustice broken. We see the evils of slavery, bonded labour, lack of access to good food for many and the myriad of other things that bind people. We desire your heart, fuelled by hope, to act and see change; to participate in your true fast as talked of in Isaiah 58.

PICTURE / INTERNTIONAL JUSTICE MISSION®

SLAVE NO MORE: Children like Chettu are free thanks to the work of IJM uncomfortable taking their pictures. But duty compelled me to direct them into position and capture a head and shoulders photo of each family member. These photos would be used to construct release certificates; a document that would tell another story; a piece of paper designed to recognise their suffering and ensure their safety and rehabilitation. As I sat in the back of our four-wheel-drive, hunched over a laptop preparing the release certificates and police complaint documents, I encountered God in an odd way. It had taken me this long to acknowledge the extent to which this work belonged completely to God. Up until this point, IJM’s work exemplified what is just, equitable or fair in the eyes of men. But it is so much more than this. It is an expression of God’s grace, an outpouring of love close to the Heart of God. Just as Jesus emancipated me from sin; wiping my debt clean, we too were introducing these labourers to a radically foreign concept: Freedom. The parallels felt so strong at the time. God was patiently opening my eyes to a new reality. A reality where I am far closer to these labourers than I might have first imagined; a reality where I no longer notice their bruises or scars;

where I don’t differentiate myself from them based on their circumstances or appearance; a reality where I no longer see Chettu the child labourer, but in his place I see a boy just like me receiving God’s grace. The entire operation went off without a hitch. Government officials ensured a sufficient police presence and followed the correct procedure to the letter during the inquiry. The long drive didn’t see me return home until 11pm, exhausted, yet triumphant. I remember staring out the window of our four-wheel-drive at the stream of motorists and pedestrians, buildings and landscapes overflowing with people blissfully unaware of the miracle that had taken place. I was in complete awe. * The regions in which IJM is working have not been disclosed, and pseudonyms have been used to protect the identity of IJM’s clients.

PRAY • For the recovery of those who have been rescued. • For the healthy reintegration of the rescued back into families and communities. • The financial well-being of IJM as they continue their work.

Just and Holy Son You proclaimed that your mission was to preach good news to the poor, recovery of sight for the blind, to set those in captivity free and proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour. We pray that those in such circumstances would know freedom. Where oppression occurs, may it be broken and where exploitation is a reality, may your example and teachings of justice break forth. Ever Present Spirit May you draw our hearts and beings into an ever closer relationship with our creator. We cannot live the challenge of Isaiah 58 without your grace and strength to sustain us. May we always be filled by you as we participate in your story of transformation and renewal in our broken world. Enable us to connect with what you are already doing throughout this creation. Amen

PO Box 8315, Symonds St, Auckland 1150, New Zealand • enquiries@tearfund.org.nz • 0800 800 777 • tearfund.org.nz

4 | TEAR CORRESPONDENT makes families fall victim to approaches by traffickers. Share and Care also offers counselling for those who have been trafficked and runs education programmes.

Rescue and prosecution

Human Trafficking in Asia STOPPING TRAFFICKERS: Girls in Nepal are given goats to boost incomes so that poverty doesn’t make them vulnerable to being trafficked.

There are more than 2 million children in the commercial sex trade worldwide and 600,000 to 800,000 people are trafficked every year. by Keith Ramsay

t is a despicable crime which has no borders, and while slavery has been abolished in all countries, and in many cases prostitution, the trade is the third largest after the drugs and the arms trade. Many authorities just turn a blind eye.

TEAR Fund’s AntiTrafficking work in Asia TEAR Fund works with partners International Justice Mission (IJM) in Thailand, Cambodia, and the Philippines, and with Share and Care in

Nepal, to help stop trafficking in Asia. Through its partners TEAR Fund’s approach is comprehensive, looking at the grass roots problems that create a fertile ground for the trade, right through to the rescue of victims and the prosecution of all involved in human trafficking. The root causes of trafficking are complex and include poverty, unemployment, indebtedness, illiteracy, lack of awareness, large family sizes, gender discrimination and traditions. Some victims are sold into bonded labour (slavery) to repay debts with hugely-inflated interest rates that

PICTURE / JARED BERENDS / TEAR FUND

can never be repaid. Some children are knowingly trafficked into the sex trade by their parents while others are tricked into sending their children with traffickers who come with promises of a job and a better future for their children, while others are married off young to traffickers for the sake of a dowry.

Prevention Trafficking prevention strategies involve educating communities to the tricks used by traffickers and empower them to reject the approaches and the presence of traffickers in their community. Through our partner Share and Care in Nepal, TEAR Fund establishes livelihood and microenterprise projects to help raise the incomes of those vulnerable to trafficking, as often it is poverty which

TEAR Fund works with international agency IJM to rescue and rehabilitate victims, and prosecute traffickers. IJM is made up of teams of lawyers and undercover investigators who work alongside government and law enforcement agencies to rescue victims and to bring traffickers to justice. They also train law enforcement officers to deal with traffickers and work with them to set up sting operations using information unearthed by their investigation teams. With the help of IJM, special units have been established in some countries to deal with the problem. Those who are rescued are taken to a safe place for rehabilitation and counselling and are given vocational training, and in some cases, microenterprise or livelihood opportunities to establish a new life. With TEAR Fund’s support, IJM in Manila has managed to rescue many children from commercial sex exploitation. They have ensured all rescued child victims were placed in aftercare recovery facilities to guarantee that they are restored to wholeness where they have renewed hope for their lives and futures. This ensures that they are protected from being re-victimised. There is no time limit on each individual’s recovery progress; it can take several months to several years. Part of the recovery care includes the legal staff and recovery counsellors working with the victims, prepping them for a potential trial, and participating in the actual testimony as well as post-trial support. With the support from TEAR Fund, IJM has been successful in helping to arrest and prosecute many traffickers. In addition to rescuing the victims, IJM works with churches and communities to help prevent child trafficking through education programmes.

Biblical Snapshot: Isaiah 58 by Frank Ritchie

saiah 58 is one of those enigmatic passages of the Bible that offers both a challenge and an exciting vision for a better way to live as God’s community. It challenges our traditions while compelling us to truly participate in the story God is playing out; complete and utter reconciliation between the creator and the created. The opening of Isaiah 58 begins with a rebuke of Israel. They seem to be doing the right things, desiring to know God’s ways, believing that they are doing right and following his commandments. They believed by humbling themselves through fasting and other religious observations, that God would draw closer to them and answer their prayers. But we quickly see that it’s not good enough to observe the practices without the right heart attitudes. In verse three, the hypocrisy of their

practice is pointed out. While they are fasting, they are exploiting their workers, arguing and fighting. In verse five, the type of fasting they engage in is shown to be inadequate and so in verse six God challenges them about what it truly means to engage in the type of fast He wants. It points back to His story of reconciliation, making the world right again in the face of the abuses and oppression that continually take place and the exploitation, fighting and arguing that are pointed out in verses three to four. God’s community doesn’t exist to engage in ritual practices such as fasting so that we can be seen to be doing the right things. It all comes with a point, a better way to live, to ultimately right all that is wrong in this world, whether it be with ourselves or the world around us. So the words of God in Isaiah 58:6 ring out loud, even today: “Is this not the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the

chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?” Where the poor have little or no access to food or food supply is erratic; when workers are exploited through bonded labour; where children are trafficked into the world’s sex markets; where people are imprisoned for speaking against corrupt powers; where people become refugees because of wars, famine or a myriad of other wrongs that occur in our world, we are called to be people of reconciliation. According to the words of the Apostle Paul in 2 Cor 5:1819, the message of reconciliation is one that has been gifted to us because God is reconciling the world to Himself in and through Christ. Isaiah 58 clearly calls us beyond a self-indulgent and ultimately useless practice of our faith and compels us towards one that truly grasps that ministry of reconciliation we have been

PICTURE / FRANK RITCHIE

given, drawing God’s world back to Him through Christ by enacting real justice on the earth as He has envisaged it, helping to shape the world He desires.

LEARN • Three studies for your small group explore causes of hunger, fasting, our own eating and global justice. Visit: tearfund.org.nz/truefast

PO Box 8315, Symonds St, Auckland 1150, New Zealand • enquiries@tearfund.org.nz • 0800 800 777 • tearfund.org.nz

BRIEFS

yanmar and its army are “systematically repressing” its citizens in ethnic areas with ongoing conflicts, despite the government’s promise of reform and its ceasefire agreements with some ethnic armed groups, Human Rights Watch (HRW) has said. The military also continues to violate international humanitarian law through the use of anti-personnel landmines and child soldiers, and through beatings and pillaging property, the rights group said in its annual report. “The Burmese military continues to be responsible for abuses against civilians in conflict areas, including forced labour, extrajudicial killings, sexual violence, the use of ‘human shields,’ and indiscriminate attacks on civilians,” the report said.

The Outlook for Someday Winner FEED THE HUNGRY: If we turn our attention and resources to the most vulnerable countries, we can beat famine.

PICTURE / KATE HOLT / IRIN

Is fighting global hunger a lost cause? by Keith Ramsay

t was 1984, and Do They Know It’s Christmas, rang out from the radio. Irish musician Bob Geldof formed Band Aid, galvanising the top musicians of the day to respond to the hunger crisis in Ethiopia by singing on the single which raised about £8 million ($NZ 16m). He followed with Live Aid a year later and sometime later Live 8, which saw British and US artists stage a massive concert simultaneously televised around the world to raise money for the famine. The artists did everything for free. Live Aid raised £150 million ($NZ 303m) and became a charitable organisation.

Progress on world hunger today But many people will be wondering what progress has been made since then as the Horn of Africa plunges headlong into another famine. Has money been poured into developing countries for nothing? The good news is that many parts of the world have made significant progress in their food availability status, but the most inhospitable regions on the globe are still struggling for a variety of reasons. According to the 2011 Global Hunger Index (GHI) between 1990 and 2011, 15 countries reduced their vulnerability to hunger scores by 50% or more. The GHI ranks countries according to a range of food and nutrition related to the population. Nineteen countries moved out of the bottom two categories;

Extremely Alarming and Alarming. The 2011 GHI shows that global hunger has declined since 1990, but not dramatically, and remains at a level characterised as Serious. Across regions and countries, GHI scores vary greatly. The highest GHI scores occur in South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. While

to the most vulnerable countries in the Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, we can beat famine. If food affordability is the greatest factor in people dying of hunger, then alleviating poverty is the greatest goal. The good news in fighting the battle against poverty is that in the space of one generation the number of

The good news in fighting the battle against poverty is that in the space of one generation, the number of people living in extreme poverty has been halved. some regions have made great strides, other countries have struggled. However, only a few have gone backwards. In terms of absolute progress, Angola, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Nicaragua, Niger, and Vietnam saw the largest improvements between the 1990 GHI and the 2011 GHI. However, 26 countries still have levels of hunger that are Extremely Alarming or Alarming. The countries with Extremely Alarming 2011 GHI scores are: Burundi, Chad, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Eritrea which are all in Sub-Saharan Africa. Among the six countries in which the hunger situation worsened, the Democratic Republic of Congo stands out. Its GHI score rose by about 63% owing to conflict and political instability. Data on the current situation in the Horn of Africa is unavailable at this time, but it is certainly in the Extremely Alarming category. As we can see, significant progress has been made in many parts of the world. If we turn our attention and resources

people living in extreme poverty (those living on less than US $1.25 a day) has been halved. In 1981, 52% of the world’s population lived in extreme poverty. By 2005, that number was cut in half to 26%. This gives us hope that extreme poverty can be eradicated within this generation. If we add in long-term agricultural projects, reduce people’s vulnerability to drought and floods and help insulate them from volatile food pricing; social protection such as food voucher systems, it is a battle that can be won.

PRAY • That the man-made conditions that create famine would be diminished. • That those in power would create climates of sharing and generosity. • That those without food would get access to what they need.

Stephen Tollestrup of TEAR Fund NZ with the winners of the TEAR Fund Award; Charlotte Taylor (L) and Hillary Crombie. PICTURE / SUPPLIED

ast year, TEAR Fund once again took part in the Outlook for Someday as a project partner. The Outlook for Someday is a film challenge for young people exploring issues of sustainability. TEAR Fund brings something unique to the initiative, encouraging the exploration of social justice as a sustainability issue, and we offer a special award to a film that reflects this. At the 2011 prize giving, Stephen Tollestrup presented the award to Charlotte Taylor and Hillary Crombie for their short film, If I Cannot Dance. The film explored the place political activism and specifically, the part political posters play in pursuing issues of justice. It was a unique exploration of a little-known medium for activism. Check out theoutlookforsomeday.net to view all the winning films for 2011.

PO Box 8315, Symonds St, Auckland 1150, New Zealand • enquiries@tearfund.org.nz • 0800 800 777 • tearfund.org.nz

6 | TEAR CORRESPONDENT

Some of the causes of extreme food shortage and famine It is more than a lack of rain that is causing hunger in the world’s most volatile regions. There is enough food in the world to feed everyone even as we reach the milestone of 7 billion people on the planet. So why do people die of hunger? by Keith Ramsay

ne of the biggest reasons is the inequity created by world financial and food trading systems, which mean some miss out while others have too much. The result is that more than a billion people go to bed hungry. The well off do not die of starvation, it is only the poor.

Volatile food prices In recent years world food markets have been characterised by rising and more volatile prices. This situation has serious implications for the poor and hungry who have little capacity to adjust to price spikes and rapid shifts. Price increases and volatility have arisen for several reasons: The increasing use of food crops for bio-fuels, land grabbing to benefit international interests, extreme weather events and climate change, and increased volume of trading in commodity futures markets. Rising oil

prices are also a factor in rising food costs where food is not bought locally. These factors are exacerbated by highly concentrated export markets that leave the world’s staple food importers dependent on just a few countries, an historically low level of grain reserves, and a lack of timely information about the world food system that could help prevent overreaction to moderate shifts in supply and demand. Price increases and price volatility cut into poor households’ spending on a range of essential goods and services and reduce the calories they consume. It can also affect poor people’s nutrition by causing them to shift to cheaper, lower quality, and less micro-nutrient-dense foods.

consumption in developing nations. Countries such as India, Uganda and Argentina have seen aggressive land taking from subsistence farmers, often against their will, and with little or no compensation. In some cases, the land has been grabbed to grow food for industrialised nations who themselves are feeling food insecure or for biofuels. In the majority of cases, however, the land is being used to set up large factories or for infrastructure.

Conflict Conflict is a major factor in creating hunger. It forces people off their land before they harvest their crops and stops livestock farmers from moving the livestock to find grazing in areas where grazing is scarce. Armed groups often seize any available food for their armies depriving locals of food. Food scarcity pushes prices beyond the means of the poor. For example, conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo is largely to blame for the dire food situation there.

Land grabbing

Corrupt Governments

Land grabbing by governments in developing nations to satisfy overseas interests have taken vast areas of rural land out of production, reducing the amount of food grown for human

Governments that use money to keep themselves in power and make sure they can live lives of excess while their countrymen miss out, are another major part of the problem. These government

leaders do not prioritise spending on infrastructure and services which will improve the lives of the poorest. Therefore, Western governments who give aid directly to the governments of low-income countries are not making a safe investment when it comes to alleviating poverty. Non-governmental aid and development agencies are more accountable for their funds and projects.

Climate change Climate-related disasters are becoming more frequent forcing more and more people in poverty to the brink. When the rains don’t come, food is harder to grow and livestock — which are the poor’s main asset — die or are sold for a fraction of their true cost. As food scarcity pushes up prices and livestock prices plummet, the poor starve to death.

Stable governments bring success However, there have been some success stories when it comes to governments getting behind initiatives which have improved the availability of food in their respective countries. Ghana stands out as an example of improved agricultural production, as well as Malawi where TEAR Fund has been working. In both countries the government has got behind agricultural initiatives. This is more difficult in countries where governments are unstable or where there is conflict. Read more about success in Malawi in our: Tackling the Roots of Hunger story below.

Tackling the Roots of Hunger As the US social activist Jim Wallis once said, “Sometimes you can’t just keep pulling bodies out of the river; you’ve got to send somebody upstream to see what or who is throwing them in.” by Jo Khinmaung TEAR Fund UK

hat’s why TEAR Fund is committed to tackling the causes of East Africa’s food crisis through hands-on work to build the resilience of

vulnerable communities. The value of this approach is underlined by research on the costs and benefits of community development work carried out by TEAR Fund in 53 villages across a drought and flood-prone southern region of Malawi.

DROUGHT BUSTERS: Drought-resistant maize varieties are paying dividends in Malawi. PICTURE / TEAR FUND

WATERING SYSTEM: Water harvesting is helping farmers in Malawi grow more food crops. PICTURE / TEAR FUND Covering a four-year period, the study found that for every $2 invested in building the resilience of villagers, project activities delivered at least $48 of net benefits for villages. And this surplus has helped them overcome chronic food shortages and withstand drought and erratic weather. Benefits included: increased crop and livestock production, loss of education avoided (from children dropping out of school due to hunger or lack of school fees) and loss of life avoided (from malnutrition or hunger). Without such investment in regions like sub-Saharan Africa, health and livelihoods are already undermined by the time aid arrives – often only triggered by media coverage when people are already dying. But food shortages are a slow onset phenomenon, offering opportunities for action as soon as the first warning signs occur.

So TEAR Fund’s risk reduction work is about acting even before the onset of need. Across vulnerable regions in Africa and worldwide, rural communities are gaining resilience through sustainable and easy-toadopt techniques such as switching to drought-resistant crops and livestock, developing grain banks, rainwater harvesting, soil and water conservation, and using manure and compost instead of chemical fertilisers.

PRAY • That the resilience of communities against famine would be built. • That vulnerable communities would be open to new practices. • That authorities would heed the warning signs before crises occur.

PO Box 8315, Symonds St, Auckland 1150, New Zealand • enquiries@tearfund.org.nz • 0800 800 777 • tearfund.org.nz

7 Litres of water input per typical serving. 10 - Lettuce 10 - Tomatoes 35 - Broccoli 50 - Brown rice 90 - White rice 150 - Butter 170 - Milk 180 - Orange 200 - Cheese 250 - White bread 600 - Chicken 2400 - Burger Beef 0

EATING IS A JUSTICE ISSUE TASTY TREAT: When we eat from the industrial-food system, we are eating oil and spewing greenhouse gases.

by Murray Sheard

hat has food got to do with faith and justice? Lots, it turns out. We take food for granted, yet eating represents our most powerful engagement with the natural world. It remakes the physical landscape, determines how we use land, and defines core components of our lifestyle. How we source our food has a profound effect on global justice, carbon emissions, and hunger prevention. Cheap, oil-reliant food is food dishonestly priced; it is in fact unconscionably expensive. Increasingly, that cost will be faced not only by the developing world, but by ourselves. Why is this and what can we do about it?

Walking with Food What would you find if you walked with your food on its journey to your table? Take that apple in front of you. Some apples you buy are New Zealand grown but others have a ‘produce of USA’ or ‘produce of Philippines’

including fuel for machinery to spray the herbicides and pesticides, and harvest and transport the product. Freighting to New Zealand incurs massive oil inputs: 97 calories of transport energy are needed to import one calorie of asparagus by plane from Chile! Delivery in refrigerated trucks is oil-based. Much packaging is oil-based. We drive to the shops, to buy, often several times a week.

Eating Oil In 1940, 23 calories of food energy was produced for every 10 calories of fossilfuel energy input. Now, we squeeze only a single calorie of modern supermarket food for the same input. The way we choose to feed ourselves pumps out more greenhouse gases than anything else we do; as much as 25%. One shopping basket of 26 imported products can travel up to 200,000 kilometres and release as much CO2 into the atmosphere as an average four-bedroom household does through cooking in six months. Imported food could join a frequent flyer programme. Put another way, when we eat from

One shopping basket of 26 imported products can travel up to 200,000 kilometres and release as much CO2 into the atmosphere as an average four-bedroom household does through cooking in six months. sticker on them. Chances are apples grown overseas started life on a large plantation where workers are poorly paid. They use chemical fertilisers (made from natural gas), and pesticides (made from petroleum), which can cause cancer in those who work the field. Things get a little crazy when we pour in the fossil fuel components,

the industrial-food system, we are eating oil and spewing greenhouse gases. But within a few years of cheap oil production peaking, the price of food will skyrocket because the cost of irrigating and fertilising the ground and the cost of storing and transporting it will soar. As food commentator, Michael Pollan says, we need to wean the food system off its

PICTURE / SUPPLIED

heavy 20th-century diet of fossil fuel and put it back on a diet of contemporary sunshine. Pollan points to alternatives which can work. The power of creative ‘polycultures’ (agriculture using multiple crops in the same space) to produce large amounts of food from little more than soil, water and sunlight has been proven in large farms (of up to 6,000 hectares) in China and Argentina. There, farmers traditionally employ a rotation of perennial pasture and annual crops: after grazing cattle, farmers can grow grain — while applying no fossilfuel fertiliser and few pesticides: pasture weeds can’t survive the years of tillage, and the weeds of row crops don’t survive the years of grazing, making herbicides unnecessary.

A Level Ploughing Field Our part in the looming global food crisis is a question of lifestyle, of working out our personal connection to what is wrong in the light of Jesus’ call to righteousness. Imagine walking through that food production system. You’d pass pollution, poverty, and disease in the Niger delta where the oil is drilled. You’d pass workers using cancercausing chemicals in the Philippines. You’d pass the cramped conditions in food processing factories in Asia. If you had to walk that journey, would you still eat that food? How could you change that food journey to one you’d be proud to walk? An interesting social movement has emerged in the last few years — the “food movement,” — that recognises that industrial food production needs reform because its social, environmental, public health, animal welfare, and

500

1000

1500

2000

2500

gastronomic costs are too high. Markets for alternative kinds of food — organic, local, pasture-based, humane — are thriving as never before. There are personal steps to be taken. Maybe you could: Decide to reduce your meat intake by 75% — an act that would reduce your carbon footprint by as much as 20% — while freeing land for growing. Even one extra meatless day a week (if we all followed suit) would be the equivalent, in carbon saved, of taking 200,000 midsized cars off New Zealand roads for a year. Observe the Sabbath. For one day a week, abstain completely from economic activity: no shopping, no driving. Rip out your lawn, if you have one, and put it into garden. Alternatively, join or start a community garden.

Weed it and Reap: Become a ‘Local-vore’

It may seem small, but back yard gardening is possibly the most radical contribution you can make to global hunger prevention! Begin to unplug from the industrial food machine. Experience how growing food works, how precious and necessary soil, water and compost are. Come to appreciate how God’s good earth works. You’ll dwell more on issues of food and justice, develop skills and habits of mind, and enjoy the food along the way. Local movements to live more sustainably, resiliently and locally are popping up in New Zealand. Join or start a “Transition Town” (transitiontowns. org.nz) — an excellent way to meet your neighbours and strategise around developing local food resources and community building. Hook your gardening efforts up with “Ooooby” (out of our own back yards — ooooby. org) or support Urban Pantry’s efforts to introduce rooftop gardens to cityscapes (urbanpantry.co.nz). If you are participating in Lent, take the food journey and see where it leads.

RESOURCES • Frances Moore Lappe: Diet for a Small Planet. • Michael Pollan: In Defense of Food: An Eater’s Manifesto. • transitiontowns.org.nz • ooooby.org • urbanpantry.co.nz • List of NZ Community Gardens: http://good.net.nz/magazine/ community-gardens.

PO Box 8315, Symonds St, Auckland 1150, New Zealand • enquiries@tearfund.org.nz • 0800 800 777 • tearfund.org.nz

8 | TEAR CORRESPONDENT

FOCUS ON PEACE THIS LENT

“Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon.”

- Prayer of St Francis by Steve Tollestrup

o longer limited to the sacramental churches, Lent, the ancient Christian rite of commitment leading up to Easter, is making its way back into the life of the wider church. Lent is the time when we pause, consider and intentionally put material things in their proper position. It’s an opportunity to do a warrant of fitness check on our discipleship and reflect on the spiritual gifts of life, love, sacrifice and service. It is a time to enquire how deeply we are connected to the world of stuff and attachments and ask, “How much is enough in an unequal world”? Importantly, it is also an opportunity to identify in a limited sense with the suffering of Christ and actively engage and be in solidarity with the poor. Usually Lent would have us denying ourselves something that we find pleasurable, e.g. no television, chocolate, flat-whites, etc. But Lent

can be an excellent time to start a new chapter by taking on a new spiritual perspective and developing its habit in our lives. This Lent we’d like to encourage our TEAR Fund supporters to take up the prayer of St Francis, to be instruments of peace, making peace a reality in our communities and lives. Our world is awash with violence, and it is so pervasive that violence is normalised in our culture. We are satiated with it on TV, computer games, films; it is in our papers daily and on our evening news bulletins. It runs in our culture and relationships through competitiveness, ensuring the advantage, being first, or denying a voice to others. It is also with us when we turn our thoughts away from the poor and marginalized, satisfied with our own well-being. The early Christian community was without question a peace-church. It stood for non-violence, as a witness to the reality of the Kingdom, and the shalom of God before Roman tyranny and a watching world. Pacifism in the early church was a way of demonstrating one’s commitment to Jesus. Still to this day, there is no greater witness to the presence and grace of God in our world than people who follow Christ’s peace. Turning the other cheek remains a powerful and convicting idea to those around us. Peace lived out is contagious

BREAD OF PEACE: Be an instrument of peace this Lent. and compelling, and to the watching world, tangible evidence of the Risen Easter Christ. So what can we do as peace-makers for Lent? We can commit to pray for peace in the world and our own nation. We can vow to be people who turn the other cheek. We can take this time as an opportunity to be reconciled with others and bring greater compassion into our relationships. It is also a time to remember the violence of poverty, both overseas and in New Zealand, and resolve to be Christian changemakers. Maybe we might gain renewed strength and leave the world a little

PICTURE / SUPPLIED

bit better for committing ourselves to Lenten peace-making. This year Lent begins on Wednesday, the 22nd of February and will continue for 46 days until Saturday, the 7th of April.

PRAY • That we would be truly aware of the need for peace in our world. • That we would be made agents of peace. • That those working for peace in conflict areas would be strengthened.

Examining the Holy Land by Frank Ritchie

his year TEAR Fund is partnering with Laidlaw College on two exciting initiatives, putting a spotlight on tensions in the Holy Land and the part our faith plays in that situation. Conflict and the quest for peace between Israelis and Palestinians have long been at the heart of much of the unrest in the Middle East. It is a complex situation with history offering a tapestry of interwoven issues that have led to the present situation. Many break the current tensions down to simple black and white issues with a good side and a bad side when the reality is wrought with many more layers. The wider Middle East is a melting pot of competing religious, political and economic interests and is the focal point for much of the world’s resource needs in the form of fossil fuels. The Israeli/ Palestinian conflict is a flash point for much of it. Christians have a unique part to play

in healing the wounds among all those involved, and we wish to raise awareness and give people the chance to experience the area itself and learn firsthand about the situation. It is our aim to bring some clarity to the many and varied points of view held by Christians. In May, in conjunction with Laidlaw College, we are bringing the Reverend Dr Stephen Sizer to New Zealand. Dr Sizer is a renowned author and speaker on issues relating to Christian engagement in the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. Dr Sizer will be conducting public lectures and talks in various places around the country. Keep an eye on tearfund.org.nz for more details. In the second half of November, the two organisations will conduct a trip to the Holy Land. Participants will hear from scholars from various faiths and traditions, visit significant sites, worship with different communities and see some of the amazing work Christians are doing to build bridges between people groups who have been in conflict for far too long. Topics

Israeli soldiers inspect Palestinians’ documents at a checkpoint in the West Bank. PICTURE / KOBI WOLF / IRIN covered will include the history of the land, theology of the land, pathways to reconciliation and an examination of the conflict through the eyes of those within it. Participants will be encouraged to undertake an associated paper with Laidlaw College, but this is not compulsory. To register your interest in this trip email enquiries@tearfund.org.nz

PRAY • That organisations working to bring Israelis and Palestinians together would be successful. • That our partners would continue to know the presence of God in their work. • That non-violent means would be found to solve the deep issues present in the region.

PO Box 8315, Symonds St, Auckland 1150, New Zealand • enquiries@tearfund.org.nz • 0800 800 777 • tearfund.org.nz

Chairman’s Report by Gary Agnew Chairman, TEAR Fund NZ

Financial Review

PICTURE / BEN ADAMS / COMPASSION INTERNATIONAL

by Jon Horne General Manager, TEAR Fund NZ

all of these funds during the 2011 year. Changes in government policy and focus have meant a reduction of government income from $2.5m in 2010, to a little over $500k in 2011. This had an adverse impact on expense ratios compared with last year. However, subsequent to year-end, TEAR Fund has secured two additional governmentfunded projects in Mongolia and Sri Lanka that over the next three to five years total $2.5m. It remains TEAR Fund’s policy that government funding should never be more than 20% of total income. This reduces the risk of us being exposed to fluctuations from any one source. In summary, while we sometimes operate in a difficult environment, we continue to give thanks for God’s provision through our supporters, and the commitment of our staff, volunteers, advocates and partners.

he aim of a charity, especially one like TEAR Fund based on a biblical world view, is to endeavour to retain the minimum of funds, and maximise the return for our field partners, who work on our behalf to demonstrate the love and compassion of Christ to those in desperate need. We try to balance the timing between receiving income and distributing that income to partners and ensuring that the time in between is as short as possible. However, there will always be reasons that make it difficult, and it was at our partners’ request that the distribution of funds last year was delayed, and released over a longer period than normal, especially for our projects in Haiti and Zimbabwe. We are pleased to note that we have now distributed nearly

Project Grants by Country Child Development Africa

174,571

Cote d’Ivoire Ethiopia

Community Development 162,477

Disaster Relief 2,806

64,075

362

362 2,806 40,000

40,000

South Africa

64,075

70,000

Asia

1,230,142

22,285

Bali Bangladesh

441,449

1,693,876

44,050

44,050 8,285

8,285

Cambodia

111,384

India

830,859

Philippines

261,197

Sri Lanka

14,000

80,839

192,223

5,357

850,216

311,203

572,400 19,865

19,865

Central Asia

220,684

Afghanistan

179,304

Kyrgyzstan

646,125

425,441

179,304 500

500

Mongolia

11,380

Nepal

30,000

Pakistan

424,941

Middle East

63,000

Palestine

63,000

Other

325,250

Haiti

325,250

Paciﬁc

51,008

Fiji

12,953

New Zealand

6,941

Samoa

113,762

9,400

71,274

9,400

174,170 12,953

42,488

Vanuatu

31,114

87,615

30,577

30,577 5,054,144

1,727,311

10,554,240

NZAID - Development Grants

509,208

2,540,572

Private Donations - Undesignated

421,156

464,776

Private Donations - Designated

Other Income - Interest and Events Total Income Donations

293,117

317,991

11,284,317

13,877,579

8,806,422

10,317,277

Expenditure Programme Expenditure Education and Advocacy

178,265

245,437

8,984,687

10,562,714

Marketing and Promotion

1,303,195

1,233,264

Administration

1,495,131

1,585,686

11,783,013

13,381,664

(498,696)

495,915

Accumulated Funds

480,191

Capital Replacement Reserves

229,495

Designated Funds

3,422,820

3,921,516

Total

4,132,506

4,631,202

Current Assets

6,051,534

6,365,663

Less: Current Liabilities

2,110,883

1,943,723

Net Current Assets

3,940,651

4,421,940

Total Expenditure Surplus (Deﬁcit) of Income less Expenditure

Statement of Financial Position Funds

Represented by:

Fixed Assets

191,855

209,262

Total Assets

4,132,506

4,631,202

889,544

545,501

Donation Income by Category TEAR Fund’s Ministry 4% Community Development 17% Disaster Relief 9% Microenterprise 7% Child Development Projects 63%

What was the money spent on? Administration and Overhead Expenditure 13%

Education and Advocacy 1%

Colombia

5,228,715

10,060,836

Income

31,114 30,577

Grand Total

2010

Promotional Expenditure 11%

30,577

5,054,144

2011

42,488

South America Child Sponsorship

Income & Expenditure

6,837

Thailand

64,075 174,571

174,571

Zimbabwe

403,929 52,115

2,806

Somaliland

Grand Total

52,115

Malawi

Uganda

Microenterprise

011 will be remembered as a year when disaster came to New Zealand. Often as supporters of international aid we can feel removed from the real people that we are helping. The Christchurch earthquake shattered feelings of security and gave us a very close understanding of the benefits of a supportive international community. Not only the practical assistance they brought, but the knowledge that others cared, made a deep impact on us in New Zealand. Likewise, through our involvement with TEAR Fund, we are privileged to offer our support to others around the world. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank our supporters, churches, advocates and volunteers for their

enthusiastic and enduring support during what for many, has been a turbulent year. I can assure you that you are making an impact. I would also like to acknowledge our international network of quality partners who enable us to reach out and assist many people and communities globally. The Board and I would also like to thank Steve and the team for their compassion and devotion for the plight of the poor and oppressed and the creative and enthusiastic way they advocate on their behalf. I thank God for his calling, direction and blessing on the organisation and the impact it is having on many throughout the world. I look forward to the year ahead knowing that, through the challenges, we are all part of this organisation that is helping those who need it most.

8,391,071

Programme Expenditure 75% A full set of audited ﬁnancial statements is available on request email:business_services@tearfund.org.nz or by calling 0800 800 777

PO Box 8315, Symonds St, Auckland 1150, New Zealand • enquiries@tearfund.org.nz • 0800 800 777 • tearfund.org.nz

10 | TEAR CORRESPONDENT

From Poverty to Parliament

Former sponsor child, Beguens Theus, is tackling issues of corruption in Haiti as an elected Member of Parliament. by Ricot St Paulin

eguens Theus was one-yearold when his father died in a shipwreck. His mother worked as a dressmaker, but she struggled to provide for her children. Beugens grew up in Petit Fond, a remote place on the island of La Gonave. The area was poor and lacked basic infrastructures. Close by there was a church with a small school, where TEAR Fund’s partner, Compassion, initiated a project in the early 1980s. The opening of that project changed parents’ mindsets about formal education. They began to realise that it was crucial for their children’s futures. Beguens enrolled in the sponsorship programme at the age of four and learnt skills and values that equipped him for the future. In 1994, Beguens transferred to a project in Port-au-Prince where he was attending school. At the age of 12, he became a Sunday school teacher and at 14, began preaching at youth events. He says the strongest Christian values he acquired were during his time at the project. Through the project, Beguens also learnt macramé and made sandals and flower holders. He learnt photography, video, calligraphy, sewing and typing. During his holidays, he shared these skills with other young people in his town. As a result, everyone saw him as a leader.

SHAPING LEADERS: Child sponsorship developed the leadership skills which got Beugens Theus elected to government. PICTURE / SEAN SHERIDAN / COMPASSION INTERNATIONAL “My popularity in La Gonave began with my interactions with the children,” says Beguens. After high school, he studied accounting. He later studied music and majored in politics, international relations; and public administration at a branch of the State University in Haiti.

“When someone supports a child, he makes a way for a congressman or a congresswoman to emerge... Beguens received a scholarship and was selected for a post-graduate programme at the State University in partnership with United Nations Fund for Population and gained a diploma in Global Leadership, at the St Thomas University, USA. “At first, I was not interested in studying politics but people encouraged me. They thought I could make a difference,” says Beguens. “I was

HAITI: Two years on

Homes repaired, schools rebuilt, and basic services restored, are among the achievements being made by TEAR Fund, two years after the earthquake struck Haiti. by TEAR Fund UK

housands of lives are getting back on track due to our work, mainly in hard to access rural communities in the mountains surrounding Leogane, where few other aid agencies operate. The Leogane region was at the epicentre of the quake and suffered 80% destruction of its buildings. Across the country, the disaster affected more than 3 million people, killed 230,000 and displaced more than 2 million. Jean Claude Cerin, TEAR Fund’s country representative for Haiti, says, it’s been an extremely difficult two years for the people of Haiti. “The lasting devastation caused by the earthquake, last year’s cholera outbreak and political instability, has meant Haitians have endured very tough conditions. Despite these challenges,

motivated by something the president of Compassion, Wess Stafford, said; that, one day, a formerly sponsored child would become president of their country. In 2011, Beguens was elected. Today, as Member of Parliament, he adheres to the Christian values he acquired in the sponsorship programme, and is

it’s encouraging to see the progress made to restore communities and rebuild livelihoods. Housing activities and community initiatives are getting people out of camps and into homes and shelters.” Over the past two years, 315 semipermanent quake-resistant shelters have been built by TEAR Fund-trained local carpenters, while 119 vulnerable families are now living in homes which have been repaired and strengthened. TEAR Fund has helped more than 100 rural schools, constructing transitional classrooms and providing materials for desks and benches for many of these, so children’s education was not disrupted by the effects of the disaster. Children and communities have been taught how to reduce the risk to themselves when a disaster strikes thanks to our teacher training, as well

committed to them as he exercises his duties of office. Beguens is an influential leader in Haiti’s parliament. He is part of a commission responsible for anticorruption and ethics. “Government corruption is like a scourge, and I am going to work hard to eradicate it,” says Beguens. Beguens is working on a project to allow 3,000 children in his hometown to access education. He

believes education is the key to success. “I will definitely champion the cause of children and address their plight at a nationwide level,” says Beguens. He is working on creating opportunities for the youth to serve. He thinks young people who complete school can serve as tutors in their hometowns after receiving appropriate training. They can also serve as social workers to raise awareness of the need to reduce delinquency and the illiteracy rate. Beguens takes his life as a vivid example of impact someone can make by choosing to sponsor a child. “When someone supports a child, he makes a way for a congressman or a congresswoman to emerge, for a highly qualified professional, technician, eventually a president who will probably lead the nation to change. When you help a child, you shut doors of prison, delinquency, mediocrity and above all, poverty. You open doors of blessings, success, positive impact and societal transformation,” says Beguens. “What is interesting about sponsoring a child is that you don’t need to have a lot of money.” Beguens is thankful that God used TEAR Fund’s partner Compassion to shape and enhance his leadership character. “I am sure my sponsor would have been very proud to see that his contribution had helped shape a leader who is serving his country.”

PRAY • For the wellbeing of all those working to rebuild Haiti. • For sponsor children to become leaders in their communities. • For those considering sponsorship; that they would see the difference it makes.

as ways to improve hygiene. Latrines have been provided for more than 9,000 school children and natural springs have been restored to provide clean water.

Medical care Getting people back into work and making a living has been another TEAR Fund priority. As well as providing tools and seeds, cash grants have enabled Haitians to start ventures such as bakeries, community shops and chicken farms. As well as the work of our operational team, local partners have also been rebuilding lives working with local churches, which have been providing healthcare, counselling and children’s education. Other work by TEAR Fund partners has included, promoting HIV awareness and supporting children living with HIV. TEAR Fund funded two cholera prevention projects focusing on disease awareness and providing water purification products. The scale of the disaster continues to affect the pace of the recovery, with around half a million people still living in camps. Half the rubble from destroyed buildings has been cleared but the

REBUILD: Semi-permanent shelters are earthquake and hurricane resistant. PICTURE / RICHARD HANSON / TEAR FUND UK

damage to infrastructure and complex land rights, mean the resettlement of families has been slow. Kristie van de Wetering, TEAR Fund’s Haiti programme director, says, “The assessment of the UN and other agencies was that Haiti’s recovery would take 10 years. Although we never lose sight of the scale and this context, we are now seeing hope and real progress among communities we’re working with. “Their resilience and determination has been extraordinary as we support them, rebuild their homes, schools and their livelihoods.”

PO Box 8315, Symonds St, Auckland 1150, New Zealand • enquiries@tearfund.org.nz • 0800 800 777 • tearfund.org.nz

YES! Name:

I WANT TO INVEST IN THE POOR!

Title

First

Last

Address:

Phone:(H)

Adrian

Aregash

Fioleta

Mobile:

11 year old boy, PHILIPPINES

7 year old girl, Ethiopia

9 year old girl, EAST INDONESIA

Email:

Soccer, basketball and art are Adrian’s hobbies. He attends church activities and pre-school regularly.

Aregash lives at home with her mother. She helps carry water and run errands. Hide-and-seek is her favourite activity.

Fioleta enjoys playing with dolls and hide-and-seek.

DOB 7 April 2000

DOB 14 August 2004

DOB 20 February 2002

These children need HELP URGENTLY!

(W)

Tick here and TEAR Fund will, from time to time, keep you informed on events, projects and disasters by email.

Sponsor one of these children for just $45 a month. Fill out the form on this page, tick the circle of a child and send to our address below, or call 0800 800 777. I would like to sponsor a child for $45 per month. If you have ticked an image on the left, please leave these preference boxes blank. My preference is: Girl No Preference Boy From:

South America

Africa

Central America

No Preference

Asia

Please add Sponsorship Plus for $10 extra per month:

Herry

Jair

Kerin

4 year old boy, Indonesia

10 year old boy, Peru

7 year old boy, El Salvador

Soccer and playing with cars are Herry’s favourite activities. He also attends church activities regularly.

Jair lives in a family of seven. He enjoys soccer, art and hide-and-seek. Jair attends church regularly.

At home, Kerin helps to gather firewood, caring for animals and running errands. He is in pre-school and enjoys playing.

DOB 19 Feb 2007

DOB 10 March 2001

DOB 15 June 2004

AND / OR I would like to become a Community Development supporter by making regular monthly donations of: $15

$35

$50

$100

Other

Monthly Payments: Please send me a direct credit form Please use the credit card details below

AND / OR

Luis

Melanie

Miquelena

4 year old boy, Guatemala

9 year old girl, Mexico

3 year old girl, Haiti

Luis lives with his parents and five brothers. He loves playing with cars, singing and art.

Melanie attends primary school and enjoys playing house and playing with dolls.

Miquelena’s father is a labourer and her mother is a seller at the market. She goes to pre-school and loves playing.

DOB 12 June 2007

DOB 25 April 2002

DOB 8 May 2008

I would like to make a one-off donation of: $

For:

Isaiah 58: Hunger Prevention Programme Isaiah 58: Anti-Trafficking Programme Disaster Relief Fund Other

PAYMENT OPTIONS: Cheque (make payable to TEAR Fund) Visa / Mastercard (please complete below)

Nabam

Paul

Payani

7 year old girl, East India

13 year old boy, Uganda

9 year old boy, India

Nabam lives with her parents and two siblings. For fun, Nabam enjoys singing, art and playing with dolls.

Paul lives with his mother. He is responsible for carrying water, gathering firewood and buying or selling in the market.

At home, Payani helps to clean. He has three sisters and loves art, walking and running.

DOB 31 Aug 2004

DOB 7 February 1998

DOB 18 June 2002

Card Number:

Expiry date:

Cardholder name: Signature: To save posting your credit card details, use our secure online payment facility tearfund.org.nz

PLEASE SEND ME: Information on remembering TEAR Fund in my will Information on becoming a volunteer Advocate

Ruth

Sareswathi

Sister

8 year old girl, Uganda

14 year old girl, India

11 year old girl, Ghana

Ruth has six brothers and sisters. At home her duties include buying or selling in the market & washing clothes.

At home, Sareswathi helps gather firewood, working in the market and making beds. She loves singing.

Sister loves singing, jumping rope and playing group games. She also participates in church activities.

DOB 11 July 2003

DOB 21 June 1997

DOB 3 November 2000

Please take me off your mailing list

Please send to: TEAR Fund, Freepost 140677, PO Box 8315, Symonds St. Auckland 1150

Proverbs 19:17

Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done. (NIV)

Suleivy

Tam

Thierry

6 year old girl, Ecuador

4 year old boy, Thailand

10 year old boy, Burkina Faso

Suleivy makes her home with her father and her mother. For fun, Suleivy enjoys singing, art and playing.

Tam lives with his parents and helps with various household chores. He goes to kindergarten and loves swimming.

Thierry lives with his mother and father. He is responsible for gardening, caring for animals and washing clothes.

DOB 25 July 2005

DOB 7 July 2007

DOB 5 July 2001

Call 0800 800 777 NOW to sponsor one of these children

Call 0800 800 777 or Visit tearfund.org.nz

2010

12 | TEAR CORRESPONDENT

TOURS AND EVENTS Coming up in 2012 - visit tearfund.org.nz for up to date tour dates and venues 1. PETER SHURLEY TOUR: 13 – 23 March, North Island 2. COMPASSION TOUR Featuring former sponsored child, Lillian Nakabiri: April 13 – 29, South Island 3. COMPASSION TOUR Featuring former sponsored child, Esther Azariah: April 20 – May 6, North Island 4. WATOTO - BEAUTIFUL AFRICA: A NEW GENERATION: May 17 – June 10, North Island Compassion Tour, featuring former sponsored child Esther Azariah

New Zealand sponsor changed the life of a young Indian woman, Esther Azariah. Now a senior associate at Ernst & Young, Esther is coming to New Zealand to share her story of transformation from brokenness to wholeness, and overcoming crushing poverty and hopelessness. Esther was born and raised in the heart of Bangalore City, India. As the youngest of three daughters, Esther’s family was burdened by the heavy debts incurred by paying the dowries of her two sisters. The situation was compounded when her

REVIEWS ‘58’ Review Directed by Compassion International Review by Drew Dallaston

EAR Fund’s child sponsorship partner, Compassion International, has produced a feature length (74min) documentary entitled 58. The title comes from Isaiah Chapter 58 in which God, through the prophet, calls on us to: “break the chains of injustice, get rid of exploitation in the workplace, free the oppressed, cancel debts. What I’m interested in seeing you do is sharing your food with the hungry, inviting the homeless poor into your homes, putting clothes on the shivering ill-clad, being available to your own families.” (The Message) 58 presents a sweeping view of poverty in our world. It moves from drought-stricken Ethiopia, to appalling slums in Kenya, from gang-ridden cities in Brazil to South Indian people living in trees. The film tackles bonded labour/ slavery in Indian quarries and the sex

family’s small business collapsed. However at age five, Esther was sponsored by a New Zealander and her life was changed. As a result, Esther was given the opportunity to develop and reach her potential. After completing primary and secondary school, Esther decided to pursue a career in nursing, but before completing her degree, Esther was given the opportunity to attend an interview with Ernst & Young, one of the world’s leading professional services organisations. Remarkably, Esther was offered a position and is now the main provider for her family and an agent of hope for many around her. The Compassion Tour begins on April 20 in Auckland, and will finish in Wellington on May 6. The tour serves as a powerful reminder of God’s call; to put our faith in action in order to accomplish essential and eternal transformation in our world. The Compassion Tour reminds us about God’s plan and purpose for each of our lives. It reaffirms what can happen when we demonstrate the kind of compassion God has demonstrated to each of us.

Peter Shurley tour

ith the release of his 16th CD title, More Than The World, Peter Shurley is recognised as one of Australia’s most popular and soughtafter gospel artists. This multi-award winning singer, songwriter and instrumentalist, has a busy international touring schedule based from his home in northern Tasmania. He also oversees the trade, trafficking young girls into drug addiction and prostitution. On a more positive note, the film also looks at the progress being made in the fight against poverty. 58 covers fair trade, child sponsorship, campaigns to provide clean water, mosquito nets and more. Several times the film jumps to the Holy Land, where Wes Stafford, President of Compassion, and others emphasize that caring for the poor is at the very heart of Christianity. Compassion doesn’t use 58 to promote its brand. Several other organisations such as International Justice Mission and Micah Challenge feature as much. The film is commendably restrained emotionally. 58 allows the power of the pictures to speak for themselves and doesn’t indulge in manipulative emotionalism. 58 is a powerful film. It’s beautifully filmed by several professional crews. It’s certainly informative and will deepen any viewer’s understanding of world poverty. And it’s moving. You would have to be very hard hearted to remain untouched by what you see. Anyone serious about their

WATOTO: Beautiful Africa: A new Generation. Greenroom recording studio and is senior pastor of Life Christian Church. With a busy itinerary, and a family of five children, life for Peter is full. Not only are his live performances and recordings highly acclaimed, he is also much soughtafter as a Christian communicator. This brings an inspirational, challenging and often humorous dimension to his concerts that is unique. Don’t miss a chance to see his live, family-friendly performance.

Watoto - Beautiful Africa: A New Generation

n May 2012, TEAR Fund is delighted to be hosting Watoto’s Beautiful Africa: A New Generation. Thousands of Kiwis will be familiar with the Watoto Choirs, after seven years of hugely popular tours in New Zealand featuring the vibrant children of Watoto. Christianity should see 58. Although long, 58 is a great deal more worthwhile and important than the latest, and often more lengthy blockbuster, for which we think nothing of paying to see. 58 will be available for church groups and is well supported with extra educational material. For more information on 58 and how to get hold of a copy, visit the TEAR Fund website – tearfund.org.nz.

Generous Justice By Rev Tim Keller Reviewed by Glen Hill

ustice has become a popular term in church circles, but it is a term many of us are still trying to grasp. In his book Generous Justice, Rev Tim Keller offers the opportunity for all of us to deepen our understanding of God’s heart for issues of justice in our world. Keller provides biblically-based and intellectually-stimulating analysis of Old and New Testament scriptures concerning the poor and oppressed. He makes minimal use of emotive language and storytelling, but instead allows the examination of scripture to provide the

PICTURE / SUPPLIED

Beautiful Africa: A New Generation promises to build on this success with new vibrant, original music; dance routines; stories of transformation; exciting audiovisual effects; and even music videos – all produced to celebrate the beauty of Africa and the transformational power of the love of Jesus. This new production has already debuted in the USA (September 2011) and will travel throughout the rest of the globe, reaching New Zealand in May. This is Watoto’s 56th Choir tour — a significant milestone in advocacy on behalf of the millions of orphaned and vulnerable children across Africa. A special Beautiful Africa: A New Generation album, featuring the unique contemporary African music of the choir will be on sale during the tour. A tribute photographic book, detailing the Watoto Story, will also be released with the tour. narrative. He attempts to answer the why, what and how questions many of us ask as we serve to demonstrate mercy and compassion and to live justly. His central idea suggests that a believer’s personal encounter with God’s grace must lead to a public pursuit of justice for all of God’s creation. Justice is more than charity. It is a correction of wrongs that prevent people from being in right relationship with each other and God. Although intellectual, his insights come with practical experience. While I did not agree with all of Keller’s conclusions, Generous Justice was one of my most thought-provoking reads on how Christians can meaningfully engage with their world. Keller is an ordained Presbyterian minister in the US and has served as the denomination’s director of mercy ministries. He is the senior pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church, which he planted in 1989.

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The purpose of TEAR Fund is to glorify God by extending His Kingdom in ministry to the poor, oppressed and disadvantaged, and to encourage God’s people in NZ to live out the values and principles of His Kingdom by sharing with those in need. TEAR Correspondent is published three times a year.

Editor: Keith Ramsay. Contributors: Steve Tollestrup, Frank Ritchie, Murray Sheard, Drew Dallaston, Glen Hill, Megan Claxton, Rico St Paulin, Troy Moselen and TEAR Fund UK. Graphic Designer: Alex Carter. Cartoonist: Daniel Alexander. Printing: Horton Media.

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