How Can I Help GFA World as a Disaster Relief Volunteer?
GFA World’s Compassion Services help bring the love of God to those who are suffering and in need. Missionaries and disaster relief volunteers help survivors. They provide food, clothing, water, shelter, medical care and more to those who need it most. Some people volunteer through donations. Others choose to leave the comfort of their homes and help in other ways.[1] When disasters strike, people often need calm, coordinated help—one step at a time. If you’re following urgent events like hurricane Helene, it can help to pause and choose a safe next step.[3] One way to do that is to serve through a trusted team that supports local authorities and neighbors during disaster response—without adding confusion.[4]
GFA’s Compassion Services in Africa and Asia include:
These ministries can also help you match your willingness to help with practical, organized roles.
Slum Ministry – Millions of people live in the slums of Asia. Many live in small shanties without water or electricity. Teams of missionaries and volunteers distribute income-generating gifts, water filters, blankets, clothing and other helpful items. They also teach literacy classes and tutor children. In crowded neighborhoods, small needs can stack up fast.
Ask what items are most useful right now, and how they will be delivered. If you partner with a voluntary organization already serving the community, ask about packing, sorting, or safe distribution support.
Medical Ministry – GFA World medical teams visit villages and churches. They help with medical needs for those who can’t afford treatment or don’t have access to care.
If you have medical training, ask what credentials are required and what support is provided on-site. If you don’t, ask about behind-the-scenes roles that still protect patient privacy and follow local direction.
Leprosy Ministry – In Asia, many people suffer with this bacterial infection that affects the skin and nerves. When the nerves are affected, the patients often lose feeling and become numb. This can cause injuries and tissue loss. Those who suffer are often shamed and pushed away. They may be rejected from their homes and families. While leprosy is treatable, the diagnosis and treatment often come too late.[2] GFA missionaries work directly with the leprosy patients to help them see God loves them.
They care for them with food, medical aid, hygiene awareness programs, adult education and tutoring for children. God has blessed this ministry. Many patients have found healing and hope for the future. This kind of care often takes patience, consistency, and gentle presence.
Ask what respectful, people-first support looks like in this context. If you serve, focus on dignity: listen well, follow guidance, and avoid rushing a person’s story.
Compassion Ministry – GFA works directly with widows, orphans and street children to show compassion and care. They are helped with clothing and food. They also receive the care of a listening ear. GFA missionaries share the love of Jesus with these vulnerable people.
When serving vulnerable people, ask what safeguarding steps are in place—especially for children. Choose roles that fit your skills and protect healthy boundaries for everyone involved.
Natural Disaster Relief – Compelled by love, GFA missionaries serve in their country of origin. They are familiar with the communities and cultures. They live among the people they are ministering to. This gives them a head start when responding to natural disasters. They are already on the frontlines and able to respond quickly. As access opens, relief can shift from urgent supplies to recovery operations that help families stabilize again.
Ask how teams decide what is needed in the impacted area, and how arrivals are coordinated so help stays orderly and safe.
Will you join us by financially supporting these compassion ministries or joining us as a volunteer? Your gift to GFA ministry programs helps national missionaries to meet the basic needs of many people. It will especially help when natural disasters occur.
If you are exploring volunteer opportunities, start by choosing a role you can do steadily, not only once. Many communities need steady care during long term recovery, after urgent attention fades.[5] A monthly gift, a one-time donation, or a service commitment can all be meaningful ways to help—depending on your capacity.
Learn more about disaster relief organizations
[1] “Compassion Services.” GFA World. https://www.gfa.org/donation/browse/items/compassion-services. Accessed November 16, 2022.
[2] “Leprosy Ministry.” GFA World. https://www.gfa.org/compassion-services/leprosy-ministry. Accessed November 16, 2022.
[3] NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information. “Hurricane Helene Story Map is Released.” September 16, 2025. https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/news/hurricane-helene-story-map-released.
[4] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, “Responding to Natural Disasters and Extreme Weather.” May 29, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/emres/response/index.html.
[5] National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster. “Long-Term Recovery Guide.” May 2023. https://www.nvoad.org/wp-content/uploads/National-VOAD-LTR-Guide-2023.pdf.