Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA)

The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) was started by the Seventh-day Adventist Church as a way to follow Christ’s example of serving and caring for those in need. Put simply, ADRA improves the lives of people around the world. The agency searches out deprivation, social injustice, and need—then works to eliminate them. ADRA invests in the potential of individuals through advocacy, supporting families, promoting health, providing food and water, establishing livelihoods, and responding to emergencies.    OUR PROGRAMS   Protecting the Vulnerable ADRA is dedicated to protecting the vulnerable all over the world. We protect children who are sold as sex workers, advocate for women who must fight for the opportunity to learn to read, and defend the millions of minorities and others around the world who suffer in silence.   Supporting Families Poverty threatens the wellbeing of families all over the world. ADRA is there for the families and orphans who are without food, shelter, and love. ADRA also seeks to empower children through education, and to give those who missed schooling opportunities a chance for a new beginning.   Promoting Health ADRA is lowering the incidence of horrific diseases by promoting health and wellness. And by improving sanitation and access to clean water, ADRA helps prevent many of the common medical problems that plague communities.   Providing Food and Water By providing food and water and the ability for families to grow their own, ADRA gives people the nutrition they need to not just survive, but to thrive.   Establishing Livelihoods ADRA knows that one of the best ways to boost individuals out of the cycle of poverty is by providing livelihoods. Through microloans and training, ADRA gives men and women the ability to support themselves and their families.   Responding to Emergencies In the wake of emergencies such as famines, floods, or earthquakes there are often thousands of people needing basic necessities. ADRA works to get them back on their feet again by not only responding quickly, but following up with long-term support.