Curtis Stout is the founder and executive director of Project 117 in Haiti. Here he shares a unique story that is different than what we usually receive.

 “Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” –John 6:35

While on a recent trip to assist our Haitian staff as they finished our third year of school and ministry, I stumbled upon the following story one morning.

Nicole is our lead cook, the President of her adult Sunday school at church, a talented seamstress and a great mother. In short, she is an influential follower of Jesus and she is wrapping up her first year working on our school staff team.

About halfway through our trip, I walked into the school kitchen and found Nicole reading her Bible out loud to Gertha (Jet-tah), our assistant cook, who is unable to read or write and in her late 50s.

Gertha was our lead cook during our first two years of school, but was placed under Nicole’s leadership as the kitchen work load increased.

Nicole reading her Bible to Gertha is obviously awesome in and of itself, BUT, upon reflecting deeper, I thought, “This story is part of the fruit of our partnership with FMSC.”

Without our partnership with FMSC, Project 117 would have a hard time financially sustaining our lunch feeding program.

Without the lunch program, Nicole and Gertha would not be working together at our school.

Without work, Nicole would not be receiving daily ministry opportunities with Gertha.

Moments to read the bible, pray together and simply develop a friendship that could have an eternal impact on Gertha.

I believe God’s primary way of drawing people to Himself is through relationships with His followers who are empowered by Jesus and the Holy Spirit.

Without your partnership, Nicole and Gertha most likely would not have a friendship.

Your impact, as you know, is both spiritual and physical.

Thanks for allowing Project 117 to be a part of your work this year in Haiti as you fill hungry bellies and hand out opportunities for people like Gertha to receive the bread of life.