July 2024 marks a major milestone for the Franciscan Foundation for the Holy Land (FFHL). During the past three decades, FFHL has remained committed to supporting and preserving the Christian community and heritage in the Holy Land. Our mission is to provide families with essential resources and opportunities, ensuring they can remain living in the Holy Land. The foundation strives to be a resource for the community by preserving holy Christian sites and upholding basic human rights.
FFHL recognizes the urgent need to protect the Christian presence in the Holy Land despite tough political and economic conditions. Established in 1994, the foundation addresses the reasons why Christians leave the Holy Land, aiming to understand and deal with these challenges directly.
Under Fr. Peter F. Vasko’s leadership, FFHL significantly expanded over the last 30 years, providing opportunities for young Christians to thrive in the Holy Land. Today, FFHL has five regional support groups across the United States in Atlanta, GA, Columbus, Ohio, Dallas, Texas, Orlando, Florida and Washington, D.C. Volunteer leaders and their committees raise funds annually for struggling Holy Land Christians through events and other fundraisers. The foundation has raised millions of dollars that provide life changing programs and resources to those who desperately need assistance.
In its early years, FFHL saw the value of education for young Christians.This led to the creation of the University Scholarship Program, offering free college education that has grown to more than 650 students. This program provides a four-year university education to economically marginalized students who excel academically. An impressive 94% of graduates secure professional jobs upon graduation, affording them the opportunity to remain in their homeland.
In addition to its education programs, FFHL created several humanitarian and housing programs that are instrumental in enabling Christians to secure professional employment and find safe, affordable housing.
Looking back on the decades of progress, Fr. Peter F. Vasko remarked, “It’s truly a milestone… 30 years of preserving the Christian presence in the Holy Land during a time when many young Christians were leaving due to political and economic challenges.”
In light of the Holy Land war, FFHL continues raising funds for humanitarian aid. This support provides critical assistance, including food, supplies and other essentials, to those affected by the hardships of the conflict.
Our donors’ faithful giving is the backbone to everything we do, and we deeply appreciate your commitment to our mission.
Fr. Vasko expressed his gratitude, saying, “I thank the Lord for His divine providence in bringing together all the individuals who have contributed to the success of this foundation.”
Without your generosity, we simply could not continue our mission to serve the Holy Land communities, preserve sacred sites and support those in need. Thank you for standing with us and making our work possible.
Click to watch our 30th Anniversary celebration video.
May Almighty God grant us another 30 years of playing a significant role in preserving Christianity in the Holy Land.
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