Indonesia's economic crisis began in 1997. Over time it has worsened, forcing parents to choose between food, shelter and their children’s school fees. Food and shelter win so many youngsters must drop out of school. They can not afford medical care of any kind so it is out of the question – even for severe cases. Sixteen-year-old, Muna, knows that heartbreak and loneliness that only someone with a cleft lip or palate can describe. Her father works as a rubber tapper, making barely to feed his wife and ten children. There was no hope they could ever pay for Muna’s much needed surgery.

But there is hope for families like Muna’s, and thousands of others, who suffer under the weight of poverty in Indonesia. Through a variety of programs we reach out to help the young – and old – who desperately need help. Here’s how:

1. Tending The Sick – Virtually every day of the year someone is receiving desperately needed medical care, free of care, through one of three OBI medical initiatives in Indonesia.

a. Mobile Clinics: Every week three general medical and dental clinics are providing free care somewhere throughout the Indonesian islands. Beginning in September 2003, we will open the doors to a permanent free clinic in Jakarta to serve those unable to pay for basic medical care on an on-going basis.

b. Life Changing Surgeries: Partnering will skilled local surgeons we sponsor an average of five life-saving surgeries a month for patients who would not otherwise be able to afford it.

c. Set a Child Free: Our team organizes surgery to correct cleft lips and palates for infants, children and teens who would otherwise have to endure a lifetime of ridicule and health problems. Local surgeons and hospitals donate their time, talents and operating rooms.

2. Equipping for Life – We not only help people with emergency needs in times of crisis but we also help them overcome the forces that keep them in the vicious cycle of poverty.

a. Bless A Child: Through educational sponsorships, school supply and clothing distributions, as well as feeding programs we help children from poor families prepare for and get the education needed to have a better life.

b. Community Gardens: Training on nutrition and agriculture are provided in many communities so families can improve their health and overall livelihood.

c. Community Development: New partnerships and programs are always in development to address the most pressing needs of struggling Indonesians. As programs expand we hope to have satellite offices sprinkled throughout the Indonesian islands.

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