New York Jets Follow Jesus’ Lead, Aid Faith-Based Groups in Ukraine
The women, children and elderly fleeing Ukraine are suffering the most as they deal with the trauma from the ongoing war with Russia. In support of what churches in Ukraine and Poland are doing, The New York Jets donated $100,000 to aid in the work God is doing amid the chaos and destruction.
The Jets just announced the recipient of the funds, CityServe Krakow Housing Project, and their goal is to expand refugee housing in Krakow, Poland. The group will use the money to provide a safe home for families that include a kitchen and laundry room as well as any food and vital necessities.
“Local churches in Ukraine, Poland and other surrounding regions are on the frontlines of the crisis,” said Karl Hargestam with CityServe. It’s incredible to see secular organizations like the New York Jets partnering with faith-based organizations to see the gospel spread in this worn torn region.
On Sunday, September 25th the football team will suit up with decals of the Ukrainian flag on their helmets and paint the end zones of the MetLife Stadium in a show of support. During a gameday raffle they will additionally give CityServe 50/50 to support the humanitarian work.
The cause hits close to home for the organization as Suzanne Johnson, wife of Jets Chairman Robert Johnson, grew up in a Ukrainian neighborhood in New York, and is herself from a family of immigrants.
The Jets say, “The donation is part of the organization’s $1 million commitment, to be split between various organizations, meant to help aid the humanitarian efforts in Ukraine.”
According to the BBC, at least 12 million people have fled their homes since Russia invaded Ukraine roughly six months ago.
In the Bible, Jesus calls us to take care of those who can’t take care of themselves. Matthew 25:40 says, “The King will answer, ‘Truly I say to you, as you have done it for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you have done it for Me.'”
This is a win for the Christian community as the Jets have massive influence on culture, and they are showing the world that we must take care of those in need and giving to organizations who are mobilizing the church to do its job.
Shelby Lindsay is an assistant editor for Charisma Media.