About Convoy of Hope
Faith-Based Humanitarian Organization
Founded in 1994, Convoy of Hope is a faith-based humanitarian organization established to help individuals and communities facing hunger, poverty, and crisis. Its mission is carried out through practical service that meets immediate needs while supporting long-term stability. From its earliest days, the organization has focused on cooperation with churches, businesses, civic organizations, and government agencies to ensure help reaches people efficiently and respectfully.
Responding in Times of Crisis
When natural or humanitarian disasters occur, the organization is prepared to respond quickly. Disaster response efforts include delivering food, clean drinking water, hygiene supplies, and other essential items to affected families. These actions are designed to bring relief during moments of urgent need. When possible, support continues beyond the emergency phase to assist communities as they rebuild homes, restore livelihoods, and regain a sense of normalcy.
Addressing Hunger and Food Security
A significant focus of the organization’s work is reducing hunger. Children’s feeding programs provide daily meals to students in vulnerable communities, helping improve nutrition and support consistent school attendance. In addition to feeding initiatives, agricultural programs offer training in responsible and sustainable farming practices. Participants learn practical skills that can increase food production, strengthen household income, and reduce long-term dependence on aid.
Empowering Women and Girls
Empowerment programs play an essential role in strengthening families and communities. The Women’s Empowerment initiative works alongside women as they start or expand small businesses to support their households. Training covers nutrition, health, hygiene, literacy, cooking, agriculture, and early childhood development, with added guidance for expectant mothers. Complementing this work, the Girls’ Empowerment program provides education on self-esteem, healthy decision-making, nutrition, and physical and emotional health, helping girls prepare for future responsibilities and opportunities.
Operational Support and Stewardship
Convoy of Hope operates through a combination of donated goods, financial contributions, and volunteer service. This model allows resources to be managed carefully while reaching large numbers of people across different regions. Transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship guide decision-making, ensuring that support is delivered with integrity and care.
Measured Impact and Reach
Today, Convoy of Hope feeds more than 639,000 children worldwide every school day. It has supported over 252,000 women and girls and provided agricultural training to more than 140,000 individuals. Since 1994, the organization has responded to more than 850 disasters across the United States and internationally. Its work has been recognized for effectiveness and accountability, including a ranking of number 27 on Forbes’ list of America’s Top 100 Charities.
Origins and Growth
The organization was founded by Hal Donaldson, whose commitment to service was shaped by personal experience. After his father died in a car accident in 1969, the support his family received from neighbors left a lasting impression. Years later, inspired by a meeting with Mother Teresa and relationships with missionaries Mark and Huldah Buntain, Hal and a small group of family members and friends launched the organization. Early outreach events, known as Care Days, marked the beginning of its work.
Continuing the Mission
Over the years, expanded infrastructure and partnerships have allowed Convoy of Hope to grow into a global organization. Today, it serves communities in more than 130 countries and has reached over 350 million people, continuing its mission with humility, consistency, and a focus on meeting real needs.
Website: https://convoyofhope.org