Every night, before she closed her eyes, Agnes asked herself the same heartbreaking question: How will I feed my children tomorrow? It wasn't a question she asked once or twice. It became part of her daily life.

As a mother of seven, Agnes carried the responsibility of caring for her family. But after violence forced them to flee their home in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, that responsibility became even more difficult. Like thousands of other refugee families, she crossed into neighboring Burundi with little more than the clothes her children were wearing, leaving behind the home and community they once knew.

Finding safety did not mean life became easier. Every day became a search for food, shelter, and stability. Some days there wasn't enough food for everyone, and Agnes quietly skipped meals so her children could eat. Every night, she wondered what she would do when the little food they had was gone. For any parent, watching a child go hungry is heartbreaking. For Agnes, it became a daily reality.

Sadly, Agnes's story reflects the experience of many refugee families. As conflict continues in eastern Congo, thousands have crossed into Burundi seeking safety. Many arrive after days of travel with few belongings and little certainty about the future. Families now live in refugee camps and temporary shelters while parents work to provide for their children.

The Church of the Nazarene in Burundi, together with Nazarene Compassionate Ministries (NCM), responded by serving some of the most vulnerable refugee families in the Cibitoke refugee camp. Local church volunteers distributed emergency food packages containing rice, beans, maize flour, cooking oil, soap, and other essential supplies. They also spent time listening to families, praying with them, and offering encouragement.

For Agnes, receiving the food package meant her family would have food for the days ahead. She could prepare meals for her children without wondering whether there would be enough for tomorrow.

When Agnes reflected on what the assistance meant to her family, she shared:

“This food has given my children strength and hope. I can now sleep at night without worrying about their hunger.”

The volunteers also spent time with families, listening to their stories and praying with them during a difficult season. Through their care and practical support, refugee families were reminded that they were not facing these challenges alone.

The needs of refugee families in Burundi continue. Many parents are still searching for food, safety, and stability as they rebuild their lives after being displaced by conflict. Through the ministry of the Church of the Nazarene, families continue receiving practical assistance and encouragement during this challenging time.