Stories of Change

Top: Kevin leading a CROP Walk in Danville, Bottom: Kevin visiting CWS programs in Kenya

“Because They Walk”: Kevin McCoy’s Changemaker Journey

Kevin McCoy, Community Engagement Specialist for Fundraising at CWS, has dedicated 25 years to serving others. Through his work with CWS, Kevin has led and attended 300 CROP Hunger Walks, aligning his faith and values with a commitment to walk in solidarity with communities worldwide striving for basic necessities and a better future.

Discovering a Calling to Serve 

Kevin McCoy, Community Engagement Specialist for Fundraising at CWS, has dedicated much of his life, including a cumulative 25 years at CWS, to making a difference in the lives of others. Coming from a family of helpers—including a nurse, a firefighter/EMT and a professor—Kevin’s passion for service was instilled early on. “For as long as I’ve lived, it’s been a part of my identity,” he shared. 

Inspired by his father, Kevin studied Art History and later received his Master’s in Counseling. While his studies enriched him profoundly, he discovered his passion for serving others internationally when he volunteered for the Peace Corps in the Dominican Republic. During his volunteer work, Kevin was moved by the “hope and spirit” of the local communities, despite their daily challenges in accessing basic necessities. “That’s the kind of person I want to be,” he recalled, recognizing the profound impact of these experiences on his life’s direction.

Aligning Faith and Values at CWS

These experiences stayed with Kevin and eventually led him to CWS, where he discovered an intersection between his faith journey and his commitment to serving others. Kevin also recalls that he felt that his values were truly aligned with CWS, from its focus on inclusivity to how international programs are run by relying on and honoring the knowledge and expertise of locals. Since joining the team, he has had the opportunity to visit various programs in countries including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nicaragua and, most recently, Kenya. Following each visit, Kevin returns to the United States with in-depth first-hand knowledge of our programs, which allows him to invigorate the CROP Hunger Walks he leads. 

Walking in Solidarity through CWS CROP Walks

While it’s impossible to know how many CROP Hunger Walks Kevin has attended since joining CWS, we estimate it’s somewhere in the 300s. Kevin shared that he has seen participants as young as babies in strollers and individuals as old as 100 years old, showcasing the multigenerational initiative and impact of the walks. In his work, Kevin has resonated with the slogan often used by CROP Hunger Walkers: “We walk because they walk.” He added, “People around the world have to walk every day for their basic necessities, whether that’s food, water, shelter or just to get to safety; they’re walking, and they’re going through these struggles. And here in the U.S., we can walk with them in solidarity.” 

A Widespread Impact Towards Good 

Aside from the influence Kevin has had on our programs, Kevin’s kind and positive demeanor has also left an impact on his colleagues. Nick Gliha, who has worked closely with Kevin on CWS’ Fundraising team, remarks Kevin as a “master storyteller” and shared, “He’s great with kids, with seniors and with welcoming new staff and acclimating them to CWS’ mission.” Each conversation with Kevin is underlined by a welcoming nature and the clear revelation of the passion and dedication that has guided him throughout his life. 

In his 25 years at CWS, Kevin has become a bridge between those who need a helping hand and those who can provide it. In every step he’s taken, Kevin continues to honor the journeys of those walking for a better life, reminding us all that the path toward change is one we must walk together.

Kevin McCoy has been recognized by Church World Service as a CWS Changemaker. This campaign is a celebration of the broad community of long-time volunteers, program partners, staff and donors who allow CWS work to be possible. You can learn more about CWS Changemakers by clicking here. To learn more and find a CROP Hunger Walk near you, click here.

Stories of Change

Community members of the Saint James AME church receive CWS Kits and Blankets

Saint James AME Church: A Legacy of Warmth, Resilience and Care

A Rich History of Community

For nearly 160 years, the Saint James AME Church in Live Oak, Florida, has been a fundamental haven in the community. Before African Americans were allowed to go to school or worship freely, they gathered in this sacred space. Today, the church continues to serve as both a place of worship and a source of generosity and kindness.

“We’re one of the smaller churches, but we have a rich, rich history,” shared Pastor Marvin Bouquette. The church hosts various initiatives throughout the year to build community, from school supply giveaways to Easter egg hunts and family fun days.

Coming Together to Support Eachother 

The sense of community fostered by Saint James AME Church has become a lifeline in times of need. This was especially true when Hurricane Helene hit Live Oak, Florida, this past September. The rural city of fewer than 7,000 people lost electricity and access to water in the aftermath of the storm.

As part of the network of churches that Church World Service (CWS) supports, Saint James AME Church partnered with the CWS Kits and Blankets program to care for its members and neighbors after the hurricane.

Delivering Hope with CWS Kits and Blankets

“With the partnership, we distributed to about 200 people and not just within the four walls of the church,” Pastor Marvin recalled. The church used social media, mass texting, and phone tree systems to ensure the community knew about the distribution.

The response was overwhelming. “The number of people who showed up was mind-boggling,” said Pastor Marvin. People were particularly surprised by the quality of the items they received. “A lot of the times when things are donated, they’re not the best quality, but these heavyweight and lightweight blankets—people love them,” he added.

Extending Help Beyond Church Walls

The distribution extended beyond Saint James AME Church. The church reached out to seven other churches in the area, ultimately supporting about 500 people. Reflecting on the community’s resilience, Pastor Marvin stated, “We make do, and CWS coming in and donating those items allowed us to say, ‘We may not be able to give you electricity right now, but here are some items that can provide comfort.’”

One of the most appreciated items in the CWS Kits was the Period Packs. These packs were in high demand and were the first to run out. Recognizing the importance of these products, a local school administrator took some back to ensure students also had access to them.

The feminine hygiene products in these packs not only provide necessary care but also send a powerful message—reminding individuals with periods that their needs matter, even during a disaster.

An Expression Gratitude 

Pastor Marvin extended his gratitude to those who support the CWS Kits and Blankets program. “There’s a lot of work that goes into these Kits, so on behalf of Saint James AME Church and the Live Oak community, thank you.”

From the compassionate hands that build the Kits to the generous ones that distribute them, CWS Kits and Blankets remain a powerful source of comfort. They connect communities and remind us all of the importance of caring for one another in times of need.

To support individuals affected by recent hurricanes, please consider donating to our disaster response fund. You can learn more about CWS’ Emergency Preparedness, Response and Recovery work by clicking here and you can get involved in our Kits and Blankets Program here. 

 

Stories of Change

Top: Bethlehem on Broad Street coordinator Jim Lowe Middle: CWS Kits Bottom: Woman holding CWS Blanket

CWS Kits and Blankets Bring Warmth and Hope to Ohio Communities

CWS Blanket and Kit donations have provided warmth and essential support to Ohio communities facing record cold and power outages. The generosity of donors, local shelters and events like Bethlehem on Broad Street have offered comfort, hope and vital supplies to those in need during winter’s harshest challenges.

During the harsh winter days, the generosity of CWS Blanket and Kit donors has provided critical relief to those in need across central and southern Ohio. With record-breaking cold and widespread power outages, many found themselves seeking refuge in local warming shelters. Thanks to donations from Church World Service supporters, these shelters were able to offer warm blankets and essential hygiene kits to their guests. 

Warmth Amid Winter’s Challenges

“This winter storm was devastating, and many people lost electricity, leaving them no choice but to move to a warming center,” said Matthew Stevens, Director of Congregational Campaigns at CWS. “Because of the generous donors from Church World Service, the guests in these shelters received warm blankets and hygiene items, bringing comfort in difficult times.” 

One of the recipients of CWS Blankets was Bethlehem on Broad Street (BOBS), an ecumenical Christmas Day event in Columbus, Ohio, that serves hundreds of people in need. Jim and Gail Lowe, coordinators of BOBS, expressed their deep gratitude for the donations. 

Gratitude from Local Leaders

“I can’t say thank you enough to Church World Service for providing these blankets and hygiene kits for our community,” Jim said. “So many people are in need of extra warmth during the winter, and these blankets are perfect.” 

In addition to their event, Jim and Gail distributed blankets to local warming shelters and organizations supporting unhoused individuals and families. Gail noted, “It’s so heartwarming to know that on these extremely cold days, people can stay warm thanks to the love and care behind these donations.” 

The impact of these gifts stretches far beyond physical warmth, reminding those in need that they are not alone. CWS donors continue to bring hope and compassion to communities facing winter’s harshest challenges. 

 To learn how you can contribute CWS Blankets to our neighbors who need them most, click here.

Stories of Change

Andrea Flores at the CWS Houston office

“We Are the Light”: How Caseworker Andrea Flores Has Become a Light to Unaccompanied Children

This staff spotlight story features Andrea Flores, a caseworker in our Houston office for our Home Study and Post Release Services program. Andrea talks about her responsibilities in her role as well as her personal connection and passion for her work. 

The gentle warmth of CWS HSPRS Caseworker, Andrea Flores, is often the first sign of welcome a recently arrived child experiences. This warmth extends beyond Andrea’s sweet personality and into Andrea’s passion and motivation for her work with unaccompanied children. “I would like to be part of their new journey by providing comfort and support so they can remember that there are people who care about them no matter what,” Andrea shared. 

From Honduras to the United States: Andrea’s Journey to Helping Her Community

Originally from Honduras, Andrea was initially unsure about moving to the United States because she felt she could have a greater impact by serving her community in her own country. “I wanted to live in my country and work for my people, but my dad once told me, ‘If you want to help your people, it is not necessary to be in Honduras; you can be over there and help them.’ I ended up here in the United States helping my people, which is why I really value this job,” she stated. 

Connecting with Children Through Shared Culture

In her role, Andrea brings a unique perspective since she shares the same home country as many of the children she serves. She explained that because she knows the culture, she better understands why these children come to the United States and what type of information and support they need. “If these minors are from very poor communities, sometimes they only study until sixth grade. If they want to go to high school, they have to travel to another city which is a major cost with transportation and rent and is too much for these families. They are used to working. After sixth grade, everyone works in the poor communities so they’re used to it. That’s why here in the U.S. I have to remind them, ‘That’s not right, you need to go to school,’” Andrea told us, adding that many of these children also flee their country to escape gang violence. 

Becoming the “Light” for Unaccompanied Children 

Before arriving in the United States five years ago, Andrea didn’t know about organizations like CWS that support these vulnerable children. Now, Andrea sees these organizations as a crucial source for families and children to get access to the information they need to become successful members of their new communities. “We are the light, in a way,” she said. 

Since she began working at CWS, Andrea has been able to see many of her clients progress in their new homes. Some of her favorite moments have been when she receives videos from her clients of teachers giving them awards for good performance in school. These videos give Andrea hope that they are on the right path to a safe and fulfilling life in the United States.

When asked what message she would share with unaccompanied children seeking a new home in the United States, Andrea became emotional, saying, “Don’t worry. If you are here in the United States, there are people who really care about you.” Driven by her passion and desire to make an impact, Andrea is committed to making sure she is this person for the clients she serves every day. 

You can learn more about the CWS Houston office and how you can support our programs by clicking here.

Stories of Change

Martha Brito growing crops in her community

Empowering Communities Through Agriculture and Leadership

Martha Brito, a young leader from Aldea Xemamatze, Guatemala, has transformed her community through agricultural knowledge and workshops on women’s empowerment. Inspired by her grandmother and mother, Martha teaches sustainable farming practices and advocates for dignity and confidence among women.

Food at home, without depending on market products, is a blessing. We only need to buy the basics; everything else we can grow ourselves. These words reflect the skills and success of Martha Brito, an active participant in our Guatemala programs led by our partner, CIEDEG.*

Since she was just 9 years old, Martha, from the village of Aldea Xemamatze, Caserío Visajkub, has witnessed how training in agriculture, health and dignity has transformed her reality and that of many families around her.

A Generational Cycle of Learning 

Martha’s leadership story began when she lived with her grandmother, a key figure in her life who taught her the importance of community projects.”We come from a low-income family, and the support from CIEDEG has been essential for us. They provided training on how to make organic fertilizers, prepare homemade insecticides, and take care of our crops,” Martha shared. Thanks to this training, she learned from a young age how to improve agricultural production at home and understood the importance of growing food for a healthy diet.

Martha has also learned a great deal alongside her mother, Catarina Brito, a CIEDEG promoter. “I’ve always been by her side, helping her in any way I can. Sometimes I accompany her on visits to other communities and encourage people to harvest more.” In addition to her agricultural knowledge, Martha has learned to prepare traditional foods. “My grandmother always said we had to work together to improve our nutrition, especially to fight child malnutrition,” she recalls fondly.

Empowering Women in the Community

Over the years, Martha has become a facilitator of learning in her community. She has held workshops on using organic fertilizers and homemade pesticides, contributing to the empowerment of the women around her. In 2023, she taught her first course on dignity for the women in her community. This workshop emphasized the importance of women feeling confident in themselves and understanding that they have the right to lead and be heard.

Today, Martha dreams of having her own pig farm to support other women in her community. “It’s a project I would love to make a reality because there are many women who need help in these areas,” she says with hope.

Beyond Guatemala 

One of Martha’s most enriching experiences was her trip to Japan in 2022, thanks to CIEDEG’s support. For nine months, she learned about crops, pig care, and goat farming. Although it was initially difficult to adapt to the language and food, she gradually got used to it and shared her experiences with other participants. “We learned a lot, and our colleagues were proud of us for making it so far.”

Today, Martha continues her daily activities at home, such as feeding her chickens and taking care of her animals. In every small action, she honors her mother and grandmother, while empowering her community and the next generations who will benefit from the sharing of this rich knowledge.

*We are thankful to the Conference of Evangelical Churches in Guatemala for their leadership in this program and the support of the LDS Charities. 

You can learn more about the work CWS does in Latin America by clicking here. 

The Powerful Strength of Denia & Yordy


Mariana Gama | December 12, 2024

*TRIGGER WARNING: This story mentions intense violence and threats to a child with a severe disability and may be difficult to read.* Scroll through the gallery above to see images of Yordy and Denia in their home and the support they’ve received through CWS “You have 24 hours to leave your home and if not, we will come here and …

Stories of Change

Irina (left) with a Speranta Terrei staff member

Irina’s Journey of Resilience and Recovery

Irina, a native of Odesa, had always been an energetic and cheerful woman. Working in the marketplace, she knew how to find a common language with people and make them smile. But when the war began, her life turned upside down. One troubling day, she decided that she could no longer stay in her hometown and packed her things, leaving behind everything she loved. 

Irina arrived in Balti, Moldova, in the early days of the conflict, filled with anxiety and uncertainty. She found herself alone, without family or friends, which added to her sense of loneliness. During her first weeks in the new city, she tried to settle in, but the stress and fear took a toll on her health. Soon, Irina began to experience constant fatigue, headaches and joint pain. Not knowing where to turn for help, she learned about one of the Refugee Assistance Centers in the city, CWS’ local partner, Speranta Terrei. With hope and excitement, Irina visited the Center and was greeted with warmth and understanding. The doctor conducted a consultation and suggested that she undergo a comprehensive examination. 

After consulting with a therapist, Irina was referred to an external medical center for a more detailed examination and consultations with specialists. She completed the necessary tests and examinations there, which helped identify problems caused by stress and lack of self-care. 

The employees of Speranta Terrei provided Irina with medical care and psychological support. Irina felt that she had not been forgotten and that there were people ready to help in difficult times. The Center’s employees told her about the possibility of meeting people like her in partner organization, Zdorovii Gorod. She began attending support groups where she met other women who had gone through similar experiences. 

“The program not only helped me get my medication, but also provided counseling that helped me understand how to take better care of myself. Now I am actively working on my mental health and feel like I can handle anything that comes my way,” said Irina. 

Irina’s story is one of fortitude and the importance of seeking help in difficult times. With this newfound support, she is now on the path to a full recovery. 

CWS’ local partners Speranta Terrei (Hope of the Earth) provides Ukrainian refugees with food, medical and psychological assistance and Healthy City, also known as Zdorovii Gorod, supports Ukrainian refugees by providing comprehensive services including food and non-food items, social inclusion and psychosocial support. 

This story is possible thanks to the generosity of UMCOR. To learn more and support CWS’ work with Ukrainian refugees in Moldova, click here. 

Stories of Change

Disclaimer: for the safety and protection of the family in this story, a stock image has been used

Overcoming Obstacles on the Path to Safety

Trigger Warning: This story mentions instances of substance abuse. 

When war broke out in his home country of Ukraine, 26-year-old Mihail* was faced with an impossible choice. Though the decision was not easy, with the ongoing conflict and so much uncertainty ahead, Mihail was forced to leave his home behind in search of safety. 

With no other way of traveling besides his own two feet, Mihail walked towards the border, where he would seek safety in the neighboring country of Moldova. “I walked for a long time and even swam across the river to be safe,” he shared. “In fact, there was no choice. I went where it was possible to cross the border. Moldova is on the way. It was close enough for me to get there. It was all about getting out and saving my life.” 

On the first day after arrival, he found a job, where he met a man who knew an employee of CWS’ local partner in Moldova, the Union for Justice and Health. 

“It was probably a big coincidence, which I perceive as real luck. The Union immediately responded and helped.” The Union provided Mihail with temporary housing for three weeks, food vouchers and also moral support, advice and documents, which were especially valuable at that moment. With this support, Mihail was able to overcome the first difficulties and begin to build a new life. 

At the time of his stay in Moldova, Mihail was struggling with addiction and continued treatment. He shared, “I had been battling addiction even before the war and continued to treat with methadone therapy whenever possible. In Ukraine, such drugs could be obtained relatively easily, although more often for money. In Moldova, the situation turned out to be different. Everything passed through official channels and was controlled by special structures, the partner of which was the Union for Justice and Health. With their help, I was able to continue the treatment, and this greatly facilitated adaptation.” 

But there were many other challenges. Applying for temporary asylum turned out to be a long and difficult process. Finding a job was complicated by lack of knowledge about local laws and of the language. Mihail praised the contribution of the Union and its staff, which helped him slowly settle down and feel more confident, providing him with the stability he needed to continue his journey and build a safe, new life in Germany. 

*The name has been changed to protect his identity. 

The Union for Equity and Health (Uniunea pentru Echitate si Sanatate) provides psychological, social, and medical assistance to people in Moldova. They offer support groups, educational resources, and health services to promote safety and well-being among these program participants. 

This story is possible thanks to the generosity of UMCOR. To learn more and support CWS’ work with Ukrainian refugees in Moldova, click here. 

Stories of Change

Disclaimer: for the safety and protection of the family in this story, a stock image has been used

“Every Day We Cling to Hope”

Valentina and her daughter Alina experienced the horrors of war that changed their lives forever. When shelling began in their hometown in eastern Ukraine, the house where they lived was destroyed. They had no choice but to flee. The memories of destroyed streets, the roar of explosions and farewells to their homeland are forever imprinted in their minds. They ended up in Moldova, hoping to find refuge and peace there, but their ordeal was only just beginning.

When they arrived, everything seemed temporary. “We just have to wait it out,” Valentina reassured herself. But as the days and weeks passed, the situation only worsened. It was difficult to find housing and work, and when Valentina fell ill, things got even worse. She experienced depression and nearly stopped eating, causing her weight to drop rapidly. Alina, her 19-year-old daughter, felt the full weight of responsibility for their future. She got a job in a small flower shop, where, despite the modest earnings, she hoped to somehow support her mother.

Alina did not earn enough money to cover a medical examination for her mother, and Valentina was getting weaker every day. Without a clear way to help, Alina felt like time was slipping through her fingers until one of the employees of the flower shop told her about Speranța Terrei (Hope of the Earth), CWS’ local partner in Moldova. The team at Speranța Terrei organized a full medical examination for Valentina and found that she was positive for lung cancer. The diagnosis was a terrible blow, but they finally had the answers they needed and support from Speranța Terrei in the recovery ahead and throughout her chemotherapy treatments.

For Alina, this time was a test of strength, but she did not feel alone in the fight. Alina was offered a job at the Refugee Assistance Center, so she was able to be with her mother and get paid to assist the people who work at the center.

“The program helped me understand that my daughter and I are not alone. We met people at the Center who had experienced similar diagnoses, and this gave me strength. Every day we cling to hope—hope that the treatment will work, hope that the disease will recede and hope that my daughter and I can start a new chapter in our lives. We are surrounded by people who believe in the best, and this belief gives us strength,” said Valentina.

The story of Valentina is a story of fortitude and of the importance of seeking help and support in difficult times. Thanks to the Speranța Terrei, she is in the process of recovering her health, with the hope of a complete recovery.

In Balti, CWS’ local partner Speranta Terrei (Hope of the Earth) provides Ukrainian refugees with food, medical and psychological assistance. The organization raises awareness around infectious disease, provides treatment support to tuberculosis patients and promotes their rights within local systems, advocating for greater patient support. 

This story is possible thanks to the generosity of UMCOR. To learn more and support CWS’ work with Ukrainian refugees in Moldova, click here. 

Stories of Change

Above: Sasha (right) stands next to the CWS Blankets that were distributed in November 2024. Below: CWS Blankets are prepared for distribution.

CWS Blankets Bring Thanksgiving Warmth in Washington State

Many of the clients at Concern for Neighbors Food Bank in Mountlake Terrace, Washington, had a little something extra to be grateful for this Thanksgiving: snuggly CWS Blankets! The food bank provides food and some household supplies to hundreds of people each Tuesday morning, and they added 100 CWS Blankets to their distribution during the week of Thanksgiving 2024. It was the fourth time in five years that CWS supplied blankets for the team at Concern for Neighbors to give out. 

Concern for Neighbors begins their distribution at 9:30 a.m. and has been using a drive-through format since 2020. Clients line up in their cars and neighbors often carpool so that one car may represent a few families. The line of cars often snakes around the block. 

On the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, Sasha got in line in her car at 5:30 in the morning, four hours before distribution began. It was a cold and cloudy day, typical of the Seattle area this time of year. “I’m not going to keep my car running that long. It’s a waste of gas,” she said. While she waited, Sasha curled up under a gray wool CWS Blanket that she had received during a previous year and napped. “It definitely comes in handy. Sometimes jackets aren’t enough, especially because you don’t want to keep your car running,” she said.

Sasha says that she keeps the gray blanket in her car all the time. “I actually go to work pretty early, so that way I get a good parking spot and don’t have to pay like $60 for parking,” she said. “I use the blanket to take naps in my car before work.” 

Thankfully, Sasha has received both a gray wool blanket and a yellow fleece blanket during that earlier distribution. “The yellow one is for in my house when I’m cuddled up on the couch, because I don’t have heat in my house,” she said. “I haven’t had [the heat] on in five years, so it’s extra cold in the house and I need an extra blanket.” 

“Thank you for the blanket and the thought of it,” Sasha says to the people who make the CWS Blankets program possible. “The material is the best part about it, just because a lot of wool things are hard to find or way more expensive.” 

The clients at Concern for Neighbors will use their CWS Blankets to meet all sorts of needs. Some clients don’t have permanent housing and rely on the blankets for warmth in the cold Washington winters. Some, like Sasha, need that extra boost of warmth in chilly homes and cars. Others need the blankets for new babies or newly-arriving extended family. No matter how they put the blankets to use, all of these neighbors are wrapped up in love as a result of the CWS Blankets program. 

To learn more about how you can get involved in the CWS Blankets program, click here.