(Photo credit Family Christian via Facebook)
USA (MNN) — It’s a common occurrence for mission organizations to endure a long process of fundraising before a project can get off the ground. So when it happens in 8 days, and the goal is met and surpassed, it’s a remarkable thing.
Family Christian Stores recently held an 8-day campaign to raise funds for a rescue center in the Dominican Republic. The center, run by Destiny Rescue, will provide a safe place for children, specifically girls, to escape from a life of sex trafficking. Read more about that campaign here.
Steve Biondo of Family Christian Stores says, “We had hoped to raise $150,000 to launch this project, and I can report by God’s grace that we hit the goal and have now exceeded it.”
The money will cover administration, set up, and the first year of operation. This includes staff and house set-up and rent.
“Because it was such a generous success, it will also fund the actual rescue cost for one year as well. So it really puts us in a great place to start rescuing by March or April of 2015,” Biondo says.
Biondo has a special message for those who shopped at Family Christian Stores during that 8-day period and to those who gave to the project directly.
“First of all, a big Thank You to all Family Christian shoppers out there for shopping with us this Christmas season. Proceeds from all shopping go to causes such as this. For all of you who gave to this project, your generosity made it happen,” he says.
From customers alone, $100,000 of additional donations was raised.
The best part of this center being established is that many children will receive a message they’ve never heard before.
Biondo explains, “It’ll actually not only start operations, but [it will enable] faith-based operations in-country to share the Good News of Jesus Christ, that He is our Rescuer in every way.
“So, not only will kids be rescued physically, but we will share with them the full Gospel of Jesus Christ so they can be rescued spiritually, emotionally, intellectually, and enjoy the fullness of the life in Jesus Christ.”
As Family Christian looks at this first success with international missions, they’re excited to see other partnerships follow the pattern throughout Central and South America.
Praise God for the blessings He has poured over this project.
Keep coming back to hear more stories from Family Christian Stores about how they’re making the name of Jesus great in all they do.
