Sri Lanka's worst-ever flood disaster
On November 27 (local time), Cyclone Dithwa struck across Sri Lanka, rapidly spreading with strong winds and torrential rain, causing widespread devastation that has resulted in a dire need for emergency relief. As of the current count, the disaster has tragically claimed the lives of 410 people, with 336 individuals reported missing, and has displaced over 230,000 people, marking it as the largest disaster among the floods and landslides recorded in the country over the past 70 years.
In the Badulla region, where Korean American Food for the Hungry International’s (KAFHI) project site is located, the village of Soranathota, a mountainous area, experienced concentrated damage from heavy rainfall and ground collapse. The damage toll within the village currently stands at 10 confirmed deaths and 9 people missing, with 1,481 residents from 712 households evacuated to shelters. Fortunately, there have been no confirmed deaths or injuries among the sponsored children. Large-scale landslides continue to occur across various areas due to Cyclone Dithwa, and although the rain temporarily subsided from the afternoon of November 29, the risk of further collapse remains ongoing.
Approximately 750 displaced persons are currently residing in the temporary shelters established in partnership with Korean American Food for the Hungry International (KAFHI). KAFHI plans to gradually expand the scope of support, reaching smaller shelters throughout the region to assess the needs of children.
"Will we be able to go back home once the rain stops..." The voices heard from residents on the ground are filled with worry and fear.
Immediately following the disaster, KAFHI has been providing relief supplies, food, and hygiene kits, and is working closely with the local government to assess the situation in the affected areas.
Please Protect the Lives of the Children, Now.
Your generous donations will be delivered as Emergency Relief Kits consisting of food, bottled water, basic medicines, and hygiene items.
'Donor Appreciation Day' Event Held, Supporting Construction of Mission Center for Children in the Calderón region of Ecuador
The Southeast Supporters Committee of Korean American Food for the Hungry International hosted a meaningful 'Donor Appreciation Day' event at the TPC Sugarloaf Clubhouse on Thursday, October 16, 2025, inviting its supporters. The event served as a platform to emphasize the importance of gospel proclamation and share the vision for constructing the Mission Center for Children in the Calderón region of Ecuador.
Attendees of KAFHI Southeast Supporters' Council 'Donor Appreciation Day' event take a group photo
The first worship service session began with a welcoming address by Chairman Lee Chang-hyang of the Southeast Supporters' Council. It continued with a representative prayer by Pastor Lee Hee-jin (Peace Land Church), a sermon by Rev. Youngchun Cho (New Church of Atlanta), and a benediction by Rev. Son, Jung Hoon(Korean Community Presbyterian Church of Atlanta).
Rev. Youngchun Cho of the new church of Atlanta delivered a sermon emphasizing that the 'Way to Revive the Church' lies in missions. Pastor Cho offered historical insight, suggesting that the persecution faced by the church was instead utilized as a channel for the gospel to spread, thereby asserting the necessity of expanding ministry even amidst difficulties.
Rev. Son said, "Following the Apostle Paul's journey on a pilgrimage to Turkey, I have rediscovered the mission of spreading the gospel. I hope that all of you gathered here will obey the Lord's calling and fulfill your mission of evangelism, along with the work of the KAFHI."
During the subsequent vision-sharing session, Missionary Sangpil Lee, a staff member of KAFHI, presented on the theme of 'Bread and Gospel.' Sharing his experiences in the mission field, Missionary Lee introduced his realization that, just as Jesus performed the miracle of feeding the five thousand, the act of distributing food to children—relief work—must be combined with gospel proclamation. This presentation served as an opportunity to reinforce the importance of KAFHI's core mission of 'Bread and Gospel' to all attendees.
Rev. Seunghyuk Choi, Senior pastor of Atlanta Promise Church, which is currently collaborating with the Center for the Hungry in the Calderon area on a village adoption project, introduced the Calderon area and explained how the church came to implement this initiative. Rev. Choi explained the Child-Centered Community Transformation (CFCT) ministry promoted by KAFHI in the Calderon area, based on the concept of village adoption. He also discussed how the church can transform villages, help communities thrive, and ultimately become self-sufficient. Pastor Choi explained that the church began supporting the most vulnerable members of the Calderon community through child sponsorship and formed various Vision Trip teams to carry out the ministry. The church members expressed great anticipation for the changes that will occur when they embrace children and when the church reaches out to the communities where the children they embrace belong.
The event marked the launch of new leadership and served as a meaningful occasion to express gratitude and respect to those who have demonstrated long-standing commitment to the ministry.
KAFHI presented a letter of appointment to Bumjin Nam, the new Chairman of the Southeast Supporters’ Council, officially marking the start of his tenure. In his acceptance speech, Chairman Nam Bum-jin stated that he accepted the position after developing deep trust in KAFHI’s transparent operations, which prioritize the needs of missionaries. He expressed particular enthusiasm for the 'Youth Hope Corps' program, which fully sponsors the living expenses of young people for mission service, underscoring his commitment to expanding ministry through the next generation.
Additionally, KAFHI presented Appreciation Plaques to Advisors Lee Moo-hee and Lee Ha-soon for their many years of dedication and devoted service to the organization.
During the dinner, many attendees contributed generously, ultimately raising $15,000 for a mission center for children in the Calderón region of Ecuador. We hope this donation will serve as a valuable stepping stone toward the construction of the mission center.
Former Oracle Korea CEO Wonsik Yoo, KAFHI President: "Business Leaders Must Succeed in Both Work and Spirituality in the Digital Age"
Wonsik Yoo, President of Korean American Food for the Hungry International (KAFHI) and a former IT executive (ex-CEO of Oracle Korea), emphasized the integration of management leadership and spiritual values for Korean Christian business leaders and young entrepreneurs in the rapidly changing Washington D.C. area on October 9.
Participants from the KCBMC Eastern Federation and KAFHI take a group photo after the seminar on 'Work and Spirituality.'
Wonsik Yoo, President of Korean American Food for the Hungry International (KAFHI) and a veteran executive (former CEO of Oracle Korea), delivered a profound message at a recent special seminar for Christian business leaders in the Washington D.C. area, emphasizing the 'integrated leadership of work and spirituality' essential for the rapidly changing digital era. Drawing on his rich experience in leading Korean IT firms, including Oracle, HP, and Samsung Electronics, President Yoo diagnosed the current digital age as a period of intense upheaval marked by simultaneous revolutions in time, space, and humanity. He asserted that all executives must continually learn and adapt to avoid falling behind technological advancements. In this volatile environment, he cited 'Communication, Competency, Character, Passion, and Sharing' as the five core virtues enterprise leaders must embody.
In particular, President Yoo underscored the importance of 'humanistic insight' beyond mere technical understanding. He advised that since "technology advances quickly, but winning people's hearts remains difficult," managers must possess humanistic knowledge to grow into true leaders. He emphasized that this humanistic understanding serves as the compass for management decisions and is the source of human strength that guides an organization.
During the lecture, President Yoo deeply connected with the audience by sincerely sharing his personal pain and journey of faith. He confessed his experience of transitioning from worldly values to a life following God's will after losing his young son to illness. He testified that the realization that "love and service, not money, truly enrich human beings" became a turning point in his life, adding that the suffering ironically transformed him. His confession that the humility and gratitude he learned through that complicated process made him who he is today resonated powerfully with the attendees. President Yoo’s lecture clearly conveyed the message that true managerial success and spiritual abundance can only be achieved when technological leadership is combined with spiritual maturity.
Leaders from the KCBMC (Korean Connecting Business and Marketplace to Christ) Eastern Federation and its local chapters encouraged attendees to develop spiritual leadership in their workplaces, expressing high expectations for the lecture.
Kim Hyung-joo, President of the KCBMC Eastern Federation, emphasized in his welcome speech: "What CBMC pursues is not merely business success, but harmonizing work and faith to practice the values of service and sharing, even amidst excellence." He expressed his hope that attendees would unify their vision and mission to become a community that actualizes God's will in their respective workplaces.
Sylvia Son, President of the CBMC Fairfax-Y Chapter, which hosted the seminar, conveyed her welcome: "It is very meaningful to have President Yoo Won-sik, who deeply resonated with us at the Seattle convention, here in Washington again. We hope today's lecture will be a time of new spiritual inspiration for attendees to practice their faith and serve God in the workplace."
Furthermore, Kang Go-eun, KCBMC Director (CEO of Omni Financial), stressed that "The core mission of CBMC is to 'Bring God into the business world,'" and added her expectation that President Yoo's philosophy would serve as a catalyst for each person to further grow in their faith and life through this event.
Kim Hyung-joo, President of the KCBMC Eastern Federation
Sylvia Son, President of the CBMC Fairfax-Y Chapter
Kang Go-eun, KCBMC Director (CEO of Omni Financial)
Kenya Children's Center Construction Fundraiser Golf Tournament Concludes Successfully, Creating a Space for Warm Giving
The Kenya Children's Center Construction Fundraiser Golf Tournament, hosted by Midwestern Supporters Committee of Korean American Food for the Hungry International (Chairman Lee Joon-seok), successfully concluded on Tuesday, September 2nd. The tournament was organized to support the meaningful mission of building a children's center and church in the Isaolo region of northern Kenya, Africa, and concluded successfully with the heartfelt participation of many donors and participants.
Appearance of registering for a golf tournament
Sharing and Joyful Rounds, $20,000 Raised
The golf tournament was conceived as part of KAFHI USA's ministry to deliver the Gospel and bread to children in impoverished nations. A total of 77 donors and participants joined the event, engaging in meaningful giving, with all proceeds from entry fees ($200), hole sponsorships, and other donations designated for the construction of the children's center in Kenya.
Participants enjoyed their golf rounds along with a generous lunch and dinner, as well as various prizes and giveaways. Many also showed their generosity through graded sponsorships, including Diamond ($1,000+), Platinum ($500), and Gold ($200).
The tournament successfully raised $20,000 in invaluable contributions. This funding will be allocated immediately to a construction project for the children's center and church, which will provide education and care for children in the Isaolo region of Kenya.
All participants of the competition gathered together
Building Hope for the Children of Isaolo
Lee Jun Suk, Chairman of the KAFHI Midwestern Supporters’ Council, expressed his gratitude: "We are thankful to so many people who participated in this effort to help the children of Kenya grow their dreams and hold onto hope in a safe environment. We hope this golf tournament was more than just a sporting event, but a significant venue for sharing love."
Chung Seung-ho, Secretary-General of KAFHI, also emphasized: "The Isaolo region has many children suffering from poverty and a lack of educational opportunities. When the center and church are established, it will become a strong foundation where these children can be protected and thrive," and offered deep thanks for the active participation of the donors.
The $20,000 in precious funds raised through this golf tournament will be a great source of strength in preparing a space that will open up the future for Kenya's children, centered on the ministry of Missionary Kim Young-gwan.
NJ Onnuri Church Calling Concert
NJ onnuri Chucrh held a Calling Concert on 4th of July with CCM singer Eun Sung Yoo and Gag concert Maljahalmae team.
On July 4, 2025, Independence Day, Korean American Food for the Hungry International (KAFHI) held a Calling Concert in collaboration with Onnuri Church in New Jersey, led by Senior Pastor Mark Choi. The concert featured Eunseong Yoo, a contemporary Christian music (CCM) singer and ambassador for KAFHI, as well as the Malja Halmae team from the Gag Concert, including Beomgyun Jeong and Younghee Kim. Despite being a holiday, nearly 300 church members attended the concert, which was filled with laughter and tears, creating a truly graceful atmosphere.
Malja halmae team of Gag concert from South Korea
Eun-Seung Yoo sings his hit ccm songs and and shared his testimony.
Through Saturday's Calling Concert and Sunday service, members of the Onnuri Church in New Jersey became friends of hope for over 200 children in Myanmar and Uganda. This event provided a valuable opportunity for the Korean community in New Jersey to learn about KAHI's vision.
Pastor Mark Choi provided an explanation of what it means to sponsor children through KAFHI.
Many church members have become friends of hope for children facing physical and spiritual hunger.
KAFHI Expands 'Bread and Gospel' Ministry Across U.S., Launches Second Regional Supporters' Council in Chicago
June 9, 2025
Korean American Food for the Hungry International (KAFHI) is accelerating its mission to expand the 'Bread and Gospel' ministry throughout the United States. Following the establishment of the KAFHI Southeast Supporters' Council in Atlanta last year, the organization successfully held an inaugural service for the KAFHI Midwest Supporters' Council—covering the Chicago area—on Sunday, June 8th, officially declaring the start of the 'KAFHI 2.0' era.
Yoo Won-sik, President of KAFHI, is introducing the ministry of Korean American Food for the Hungry International.
During the inaugural service, President Yoo Won-sik announced the goal of establishing a total of six regional supporters' councils across the U.S. by 2026, building upon the core missions of 'Bread and Gospel' and 'Relief and Mission.' The 'KAFHI 2.0' initiative aims to secure 1,000 donors for each council. The Midwest Supporters' Council is the second regional body to be organized, following the Southeast Chapter in Atlanta last year. Secretary-General Chung Seung-ho outlined plans to complete the formation of the remaining councils, including New York (Northeast), Dallas (South Central), LA (Southwest), and Seattle (Northwest). Currently, KAFHI has approximately 1,700 supporters nationwide, including 200 in the Chicago area.
The event served as both the founding service and the Executive Appointment Ceremony for the KAFHI Midwest Supporters' Council. The service, emceed by KAFHI Secretary-General Chung Seung-ho, began with a prayer by Pastor Kim Jong-gwan (Dasom Church) and a sermon by Pastor Kim Kyung-soo (The Church of Promise), followed immediately by the appointment ceremony.
In the ceremony, President Yoo Won-sik personally presented the letter of appointment to Jun Suk Lee, the new Supporters' Council Head, officially marking the launch of the Midwest Council. Mr. Jun Suk Lee spoke of his 10-year relationship with KAFHI, stating he was inspired by Secretary-General Chung Seung-ho's dedication to "participate in the ministry." He announced his aspiration to establish donor chapters across six Midwestern states, including Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, and Iowa. He called for the active involvement of local pastors and business professionals.
Yoo Won-sik, President of KAFHI(left), presents the letter of appointment to Lee Joon-seok, Head of the Midwest Supporters' Council.
The event concluded with a congratulatory message from Pastor Shim Chang-sup (Fellowship Church, KAFHI Director) and a benediction by Pastor Kim Young-moon (Sae Nal Church). The subsequent dinner included a personal testimony by President Yoo Won-sik, who also introduced KAFHI's ministry. President Yoo, who previously served as the President of Food for the Hungry Korea, is currently the President of KAFHI. He emphasized that KAFHI is a Korean-centric organization jointly created by the Korea and U.S. Food for the Hungry headquarters, and he reiterated the start of the 'KAFHI 2.0' era to expand the U.S. ministry further.
Group Photo after the Midwest Supporters' Council Inauguration
Atlanta Promise Church CFCT mission cooperation
On March 30, 2025, a ceremony was held to sign a mission cooperation agreement with KAFHI and Promise Church at Promise Church in Atlanta. As part of the church's 40th-anniversary project, Promise Church was exploring a new direction for its mission efforts. They became very interested in the CFCT (Child-Focused Community Transformation) ministry of KAFHI(Korean American Food for the Hungry International) and began investigating various mission fields the previous year.
In February of this year, Promise Church's mission leaders embarked on a scouting mission to Ecuador. During this trip, they visited the Calderon Center in Ecuador, met with missionaries Ted Yim and Adela Yim, listened to their presentations, and explored various organizations and communities. This experience ignited a strong desire for self-reliance and evangelization in the region. As a result, Promise Church decided to launch the CFCT at the Calderon Center in Ecuador as its 40th-anniversary project.
Visit the KAFHI Calderon Center
Visit Calderon organization
Visit local village
The first project organized by CFCT's ministry was a child sponsorship event held at the Promise Church on Sunday, March 30th. This event took place during both the morning services and the youth service. Wonsik Yoo, the President of KAFHI, served as the main speaker, sharing his testimony and insights about child sponsorship.
Following the second service, a mission cooperation signing ceremony took place. Promise Church and KAFHI signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on expanding God's kingdom. Sangpil Lee, the staff of KAFHI, introduced CFCT, while Yongkwon Park, the mission director of the Promise Church, provided a report on the progress of the ministry. The agreement was signed by Pastor Seunghyuk Choi of Atlanta Promise Church and KAFHI President Wonsik Yoo.
Throughout this all-day sponsorship event, members of the Promise Church became friends of hope for 252 sponsored children.
KAFHI Chairman David Yoo’s sermon
Mission cooperation agreement
Promise Church has committed to ongoing support for the children sponsored by this event. We plan to progressively implement both short- and long-term missions by sending individual missionaries, including EM youth, youth groups, and KM youth. We stand behind Promise Church's courageous step toward spiritual and physical self-reliance by partnering with KAFHI to adopt a community.