Letter from the SAWSO Executive Director

Jeremiah 29:11
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."

Dear Friends,

The work of The Salvation Army World Service Office (SAWSO) is contributing to a better world.

My team can say this with confidence because our work reflects a vision passionately focused on the future, where by the grace of God, people live in safe and sustainable communities in which differences are respected, basic needs are met, and all enjoy opportunities to learn, work, and worship in freedom. As beneficiaries of Christ’s redeeming love and sacrifice, we share a conviction to uplift our brethren in their time of need, and to restore hope in a life journeyed by faith in the Gospel. 

At SAWSO, we know that a brighter future requires the employment of lasting, sustainable solutions to the issues of poverty, disease, disaster, and abuse that plague the developing world. By leveraging The Salvation Army’s impressive global reach, our team members work closely with those in need to discover community-driven solutions to the challenges at hand. Our goal is to not only help, but to empower and mobilize their active and vital role in meeting those needs themselves. This is the surest route to lasting success.   

We also know that a better tomorrow requires opportunity today. SAWSO-funded programs are opening a world of knowledge, ability, and possibilities to individuals who were once hopeless, and our service is motivated by their eagerness to grow and thrive.   

Featured in this report are seven distinct countries served by SAWSO, all of which have faced unique challenges and at times, an uncertain future. In the wake of Typhoon Haiyan, countless coconut trees, along with the livelihoods and spirits of the Filipino farmers who owned them, were uprooted and destroyed. As our featured story, SAWSO was privileged to support long-term sustainability efforts for 5,000 farmers and their families in the Leyte Province, to help restore purpose in their lives and peace in their hearts. 

The breadth and scope of SAWSO’s service is in thanks to our supporters, who share in our conviction that a better world and a brighter future are both possible and proven. Thank you for choosing us as faithful stewards of your generosity.

May you too be uplifted by the spirit of our Lord and Savior as you further His kingdom in service,

William Mockabee

Lt. Colonel