Tai Po Fire Emergency Response
Dear Reader,
Over the past year, my visits to the frontline have given me a deeper understanding of poverty.
One of the most striking experiences was meeting families in Guizhou, China, where multiple dimensions of poverty were evident. An elderly grandmother was caring for her daughter‑in‑law, who faced mental health challenges, as well as four young grandchildren, all on her own. The youngest was just over one year old. In another home, a boy with cerebral palsy, whose father had passed away and whose mother was working far from home, was learning self‑care through World Vision’s rehabilitation programme. There was clearly a lack of resources in these families, but what struck me most was that poverty is not only about material hardship, but also about the absence of connection and support in raising children, and the lack of opportunities to be truly “seen”. Watching a teacher patiently showing a boy with cerebral palsy how to make instant noodles reminded me that listening and companionship can be more precious than material things. These stories highlight wider needs, and only when policies and social systems recognise such challenges and respond with care can lasting change take place.
In refugee communities in Somaliland and Uganda near South Sudan, I was deeply inspired by the strength of women. They are not only caregivers but also play a central role in food production. By taking part in agricultural training and learning more effective farming methods, they are securing food for their families and contributing to the growth of farming across their communities. They are vital in the fight against global hunger, true pioneers helping children to overcome this challenge.
This issue’s special feature is inspired by these experiences. Tackling poverty and hunger requires the combined efforts of policies, systems, communities and individuals. I warmly invite every one of you to listen to voices that are often unheard, to engage with stories of change, and to join us in bringing hope to children and families around the world.
Yours truly,
Amy Fung
Chief Executive Officer
And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.
Matthew 10:42
