Sewing machines aren’t just for women. Plenty of men in South Asia provide for their families by working as tailors.

Eyes brimming with tears, Sabrang Joshi tried to express what he was feeling when the local Gospel for Asia-supported church presented him with a sewing machine from the GFA Christmas Gift Catalog.

“It is only God’s grace and His love that helped me get this sewing machine, through which I can be a help for my family,” he said.

Sabrang, a member of this small village church, is the only son in a poor farming family. His Christian parents spend long hours laboring in the fields, and they have been praying that God would provide a way for them to overcome their financial struggles.

“Now I can start a small tailoring shop,” Sabrang says. “That way I can help meet my family’s needs and also help meet the clothing needs of our community.”

Prayers Answered
In answer to their prayers, and with the help of Christmas gifts made by caring believers in the West, GFA was able to provide their son with a sewing machine.

“Now I can start a small tailoring shop,” Sabrang says. “That way I can help meet my family’s needs and also help meet the clothing needs of our community.”

And Sabrang was not the only one to receive a sewing machine during the program. More than 20 other recipients—most of whom were unemployed women living in poverty—also received these special Christmas gifts.

Able to Stand
Vasu Tanuja, another member of the local church, also expressed his gratitude to the assembly.

“I am so much thankful to [Gospel for Asia] and its ministry that helps the poor and needy to stand on their own feet,” he said with much emotion. “Not only that, its ministry also helps the people to stand firm in their faith.”

“I have been blessed abundantly and have learned a lot being a part of this church fellowship,” Vasu said, adding that with the sewing machine he will be able to make a living as a tailor.

“It will definitely help me to overcome my entire financial crisis and clear my debts,” he said.

And with the help of caring Christians on the other side of the world, GFA is planning to help 300 families escape poverty in this particular state.