“Our findings suggest an urgent need for pandemic responses to prioritize children affected by deaths of parents and caregivers,” say the authors. “Effective national strategies should be tailored to children’s age and the circumstances of loss.”
Various Christian groups that serve vulnerable children have responded by affirming their dedication to their missions and by calling on believers and churches to take action on behalf of this great need.
Jenny Yang, Vice President for Advocacy and Policy at World Relief, said, “The Church’s immediate support of family-strengthening efforts is critical to ensuring our world’s most vulnerable remain in safe, loving homes with their own families whenever possible.”
“To address this staggering crisis, the Church can and must be part of the solution,” said Chris Palusky, President and CEO of Bethany Christian Services. “Rather than funding orphanages, Christians in every community can tangibly be the hands and feet of Jesus for millions of children by supporting efforts that strengthen families facing loss and adversity. The U.S. government can lead the way by investing in the protection of children who lost parents and caregivers because of COVID-19. When we work together, more children can be in the safe, loving home they deserve.”
