Egypt

Egypt is a modern-day paradox. The Great Giza Pyramids provide a backdrop to modern buildings and highways, while international tourists dole out Egyptian pounds to view royal mummies from centuries ago. But limited resources and a lack of government involvement in children’s issues means thousands of children are working in harsh conditions, and even more disabled children are without any opportunities or resources.

The Problem
• Every 10 months in Egypt, there are 1 million new births, making Egypt one of the youngest countries in the world.

• More than 20% of the population lives below the poverty line, making less than $2 a day.

• It is estimated that 10% of population is disabled, many due to inter-family marriage. But only 2% of these people have access to resources.

What Buckner is Doing
Buckner first began exploring opportunities for ministry in Egypt in 2005, but it wasn’t until 2009 that Buckner began working with the Charity Shepherd Association. Charity Shepherd was first established in 1992 by a group of Cairo businessmen who wanted to act out their faith in God by helping others. They became an NGO in 2002 and have worked throughout the country to improve communities through lighting streets, providing job skills training, health clinics and more.

Buckner is helping Egyptian children and families in the community of El Salam, outside of Cairo, by providing educational support and job training through a CSO community center. The center also helps connect unemployed workers with local businessmen for on-the-job training, which typically leads to employment.

How You Can Help:
• Pray: Make a commitment to pray for the children and families of Egypt.

• Give: Make a donation online to support any of the programs listed above or call 214-758-8050 to make a donation by phone.

• Be an Advocate: Share the needs of children in Egypt with your church, community, family and friends.

• Take a Mission Trip: Buckner organizes church mission trips to Egypt to provide much-needed education, medical support and children’s activities.

• Collect Shoes: Host a shoe drive or give a pair of shoes to help orphans in Egypt.