Strengthening the Hands That Serve

One of the quiet values at the heart of Lasting Change is this: those who serve others should not be left struggling themselves.

Recently, we were able to come alongside one of our trusted leaders in Haiti who provides for his family through a small shop at the local market. For years, he and his wife faithfully rose early each morning to load up their merchandise—clothing, soap, shampoo, and daily necessities—and travel several miles to their market stand. The “shop” itself was little more than a lean-to: a tin roof with no sides, offering minimal protection from rain and sun and no security at all.

Every evening, they were forced to pack everything back up and carry it home again. Items were frequently damaged, broken, or soiled during transport. The constant loading, unloading, and worry made each day exhausting—physically and emotionally.

Through the generosity of supporters, LCH was able to provide funds to strengthen this shop with steel framing, steel paneling, and secure locking doors. What was once vulnerable is now protected. Merchandise can stay safely overnight. The daily burden has been lifted. And with it came something just as important: peace of mind.

You can see it in the photos—the difference this has made is tangible.

This matters deeply to us. Many of our leaders serve their churches and communities with wholehearted devotion. They distribute seeds, organize savings groups, care for children, and shepherd others through hardship. But it would be wrong for them to pour themselves out for ministry while their own families struggle to eat.

Scripture speaks directly to this responsibility:

“The laborer is worthy of his wages.” — Luke 10:7

“Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor.” — 1 Timothy 5:17

Caring for leaders is not a distraction from ministry—it is part of ministry. When leaders are stable, secure, and provided for, they are able to serve with strength, clarity, and joy.

While we sit in the United States, sending resources across the ocean, we are reminded that lasting change is not only about projects—it’s about people. It’s about ensuring that those who give their lives to serve others are not doing so at the expense of their own families.

This small steel shop may not look like much to the world, but in this community it represents dignity, sustainability, and hope. And it reminds us again how grateful we are to play a small part in what God is doing—one life, one family, one faithful leader at a time.