What was once a serene town along the banks of a river has now turned into a disaster zone overnight.

This past week, the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam, a major dam in southern Ukraine, has had devastating effects on the lives of the community members in the surrounding areas. Eric Mock, SGA’s vice president of ministry operations, shared, “The destruction to villages, farms, nature and the community is overwhelming.”

Eric gives further insight: “This dam is a critical resource… Pictures are just now coming in of literally an entire house floating down the river, dogs swimming, [and] cattle actually trying to stand on pieces of wood to stay above the water,” he said. “The people are sitting on the roofs of their houses with the children, disabled people, and elderly people. The situation is horrifying. Really from a human standpoint, the toll on these people is unimaginable.”

Tens of thousands of Ukrainians have already fled their homes, and others are still stranded and unable to evacuate. Loss of life is expected, and the need is rising with the floodwaters. People need fuel for cars to evacuate, blankets, beds, and food. As the floodwaters continue rising, there will be more destruction to villages and farms, and likely severely limited to no access to safe drinking water. Even landmines could be unearthed due to flooding. The further destruction from this tragedy remains to be seen, with surely more to come.

But while the conflict participants are busy pointing fingers, Eric shares a different story: “In the middle of this, the churches stand firm, so the Gospel will be going to these people. People working with SGA should know that we’re immediately on the edge right now ready to help with generators, with food, with whatever is needed to help the people there.”

SGA supports Ukrainian churches to share the Gospel and model the love of Christ to their neighbors, yet none of this ministry happens without help. That’s why the support from friends like you is so crucial! Your ongoing support equips churches to deliver food, water, and life-saving supplies in the midst of everyday needs, as well as in the aftermath of extreme disasters when they strike. And with every gift of aid, a message of Gospel hope is shared—the only hope that truly sustains in a crisis as catastrophic as this one.

Attached are pictures and two videos of the fallout of the dam’s destruction, including drone footage of the unstoppable and powerful waters. Yet these people are not without hope. Thanks to local ministers, churches, SGA-missionaries, and our supporters like you, we can do everything we can to counter the destruction with hope in Christ.

Up-close view of the flooding along the Dnipro River reveals the devastating consequences, leaving houses and communities destroyed.

Aerial footage from a drone shows how large and powerful the Dnipro River is as it flows quickly over the destroyed dam, wiping out homes and communities overnight.

In a time of great uncertainty, God is bringing help, healing, and hope to the people of Ukraine through SGA-supported pastors, churches, a seminary, and SGA-sponsored Compassion Ministry. Be a part of God’s incredible work with your generosity and prayer support.  

Your gift of compassion helps struggling people with emergency aid that generally includes Scripture materials, food, medicine, warm clothing, and shoes.