Contact: Rachel Elwood, Media Relations, World Gospel Mission, 765-671-7255, mediarelations@wgm.org, www.wgm.org

MEDIA ADVISORY, Aug. 18 /Christian Newswire/ -- The increased growth of the church in Uganda means that the opportunity to help those affected by famine is also growing, says mission organization World Gospel Mission.

"WGM chooses to distribute aid in places where the church is present, so local believers can share in the blessing of helping people," said Tim Rickel, vice president of Development. "The church in Uganda is spreading rapidly and is now active in areas that have been affected by famine."

Unpredictable weather has affected crop production in recent years, and food shortages are causing prices to rise. According to the missionaries, almost half the country is affected, and if the rains do not increase, the famine is likely to spread. Approximately three million people, or 10 percent of the population, are facing severe food shortages.

"One of our Ugandan brothers called us, saying his neighbors were starving and that he desperately wanted to help them," said Rickel. "As the body of Christ, how can we not respond?"

WGM has sent $10,000 for food and water distribution to Uganda. To learn more about this need, visit the WGM website.

About World Gospel Mission
World Gospel Mission disciples believers to become missions-active Christians. As an interdenominational missionary organization, WGM partners with individuals, small groups, college groups, and churches to intentionally address the physical and spiritual needs of individuals and communities. Learn more here.