The first 1,000 days of life are a time of incredible vulnerability and immense potential. With the right support, a mother and her baby can survive, thrive and reach their God-given potential.

We’re often told that we need to “look after our own backyard first”. But as our access to knowledge of what is going on around the world increases rapidly, is that possible? Or is it time to extend the boundaries of our yard and embrace our global neighbours?

Acutely hungry families need immediate food to survive. But they also need a lasting solution to the underlying causes of hunger. So what is the most effective way to respond? Read why Compassion’s response targets both short-term relief and long-term development.

Hunger costs children’s lives. If the world doesn’t respond to the current global food crisis, the numbers will worsen. In this interview with Dr. Yona Kapere from Compassion's Health Advisory team, hear why our work with new mothers and babies is critical to fighting malnutrition.

What seemed like the end, was only the beginning of something wonderful. When it seemed like the night was the darkest, God was at work keeping His promises to his people. It was at that moment of rejection that God poured out the cup of wrath that was in store for the world on His own beloved Son.

This is the God of hope that we serve. Despite the immense number of challenges we may have endured in the past, or the depth of darkness in our current situation, it can never derail God’s plan for our redemption from physical or spiritual oppression by the enemy.

“The food crisis matters today because we have a humanitarian imperative to support other humans and save lives,” says Disaster resilience expert, Faith Magadi. Listen to the full interview and hear how Compassion is building resilience in families facing hunger during the global food crisis.

Her firsthand experience of sponsoring children and funding projects through Compassion, seeing how the work is carried out by the local staff with good stewardship, diligence and integrity and the significant impact it has on the lives on the entire community means that Virginia hopes to partner with Compassion for years to come.

FGM, period poverty, child marriage, trafficking and disrupted education—these are real issues that girls living in poverty contend with every day. The challenges are immense, but they are not insurmountable.

We often encounter stories of our neighbours in need, and we too turn to look away, or ‘cross to the other side of the road’. Sometimes, the need feels too great. It can be overwhelming and daunting to face the challenges of the world around us. At times, we may feel like we have nothing to offer. How do we act like the Good Samaritan when there is so much need? How can we be a good neighbour when it can feel so overwhelming?

We are more than just our physicality. Each of us is made up of heart, mind, body and soul. To help children living in poverty and address all these aspects, a holistic approach is necessary. Compassion's holistic development recognises children as whole beings, each uniquely made and loved by God.

When it comes to their children, a mother's love can defy all odds and overcome impossible hurdles. Here are five stories of mums in the Compassion family that are an inspiration to us all.