This is called Long term aid which is brought about by Christian projects. According to Joanne Cleave Long term aid is, “Spread over many years with the goal of self-reliance to those receiving it.” Trocaire provides ‘basic equipment’ and tools are given to farmers and they are then taught modern farming methods so they can grow different crops rather than what they are used to. Medical aid is also given permenantaly as well as providing building materials and assisting in the re-building of homes.
Short-term aid is emergency aid sent because of a disaster like an earthquake. It is sent to an area which has been affected by a natural disaster such as war. An example of short term aid would be during the war in the 1900’s when voluntary agencies sent RAF aircrafts to drop aid. Helicopters helped in taking medical supplies to villages. Food and basic necessities are also taken out to under-developed countries. People were helping those in need, just as Jesus asked in the story, ‘The Sheep and the Goats’ (Matthew 25:31:46) when he says “I tell you whenever you did this for one of the least important members of my family, you did it for me!” By, “Clothing the naked, giving the thirsty a drink and feeding the hungry” We are helping Jesus himself.
‘Gods design for a new earth puts the poorest first. The Gospel tells us to bring the good news to the poor!’ Joanne Cleave tells us that in heaven, the poor will receive the rewards. We who are privileged are to spread the good news, be grateful and help the poor, than we shall also be happy in heaven.
Joanne Cleave also tells us about A Divided World and gives us many saddening facts. For example; 80% of the world’s population have 20% of its resources and 20% of the world’s population own 80% of its resources. The More Economically Developed countries have many privileges and luxuries such as, a good balanced diet, clean drinkable water, a good free education up to the age of 18 as well as free medical care, good housing and unemployment benefits.
The LEDC’s experience malnutrition, contaminated, undrinkable water, no free schooling, costly medical care and shelter is built from what materials can be found. The world is not fairly divided the poorer world have not enough when the richer world has too much, as Christians we should all equally share what is provided.
‘Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day, teach a man to fish and you feed him for life.’ Trocaire’s motto means, do not simply use a convenient means of short term aid, use long term and help the poor have a better future for themselves as well as becoming better Christians.
