Franklin Graham, the president and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and Samaritan’s Purse, has returned from his trip to Ukraine where he met with Samaritan’s Purse teams providing humanitarian assistance. According to CBN News, Graham spent two days in Ukraine visiting local churches in Lviv and the Emergency Field Hospital set up there by Samaritan’s Purse. Speaking with church leaders, doctors, and nurses, he noted the work God is doing through them and recognized the risks they are taking caring for the Ukrainian people in their war-torn nation.
Samaritan’s Purse has airlifted their fifth shipment of relief to Ukraine with over 19 tons of supplies. Departing from North Carolina on March 23, the aircraft carried medical supplies intended for area hospitals and clinics responding to the needs of Ukrainians. According to Samaritan’s Purse, their doctors and nurses have helped over 1,000 patients including those needing surgeries, treatments for injuries, and prenatal care. Pregnant women have been assured that their babies are safe after being able to hear their heartbeats, and they also receive prenatal vitamins and care all the way through delivery and recovery.
According to Samaritan’s Purse, their greatest need at medical facilities include “pharmaceuticals, bandages, IV supplies, antiseptic solutions, surgical supplies, and materials for casting and splinting broken bones,” all of which were loaded onto the aircraft. Samaritan’s Purse has also been providing other survival essentials such as blankets and hygiene kits, which have been distributed to churches assisting displaced Ukrainians.
Franklin Graham shared that among emergency medical supplies, the Ukrainian people and those assisting them on a humanitarian mission, need prayers. The crisis in Ukraine is dangerous, and prayers are needed for strength and protection. The dedication of Samaritan’s Purse, and all organizations who have made a commitment to providing aid and support within and around Ukraine, gives Ukrainian people hope and faith knowing that they are not alone, but surrounded by love and compassion from people who want to help them persevere and are praying for peace.