Slums are a phenomenon of economic takeoff and rapid urbanisation in some developing countries, and they are also a symbol of inequality between the rich and the poor. Next to the modern skyscrapers, there are a dense pile of old houses. Sewage, narrow alleys, and broken walls have become ‘scene panels’ for poor areas; the tourists’ cameras reflect helpless and lost faces.
Poverty is not a problem to be solved overnight. Only by allowing poor friends to discover their potential and realise they are also self-sufficient can people on the poverty line’s edge live with dignity. CEDAR provides resources for low-income families in different countries to learn livelihood skills. Also, it supports religious, family relations and financial management so that they can see a little light in their hard days.
As for remote mountainous areas, due to the underdeveloped local communication and transportation network, it takes work for residents to obtain public resources and development opportunities. However, villages often have abundant natural resources, such as arable land, seawater and other water sources. If villagers learn how to use what God has given them effectively, they can also be self-reliant and develop.
CEDAR provides agricultural training and education, financial management training for the rural poor, and supports community health care.
‘But whoever is kind to needy honours God.’ (Proverbs 14:31b)
