Samaritan's Purse

Samaritan's Purse is an international Christian relief and evangelism organization. Founded in 1970 by evangelist Bob Pierce, it is known for its rapid response to natural disasters, public health crises, and poverty worldwide. The organization operates under the leadership of Franklin Graham, son of famed Billy Graham, and is headquartered in Boone, North Carolina.

History

The organization was established in 1970 by Bob Pierce, a World Vision evangelist who had previously founded the Youth for Christ movement. Following a trip to Asia where he witnessed profound suffering, Pierce sought to create a ministry focused on meeting both physical and spiritual needs. After Pierce's death in 1978, the organization's leadership was assumed by Franklin Graham in 1979, who significantly expanded its global footprint. Key milestones include its early work with Cambodian refugees, major responses to events like the Rwandan genocide and the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, and the establishment of the World Medical Mission as its medical arm.

Organization and leadership

The organization is led by President and Chief Executive Officer Franklin Graham, who also serves as president of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. The board of directors is chaired by his son, William W. W. Graham III. Its international headquarters are located in Boone, North Carolina, with major domestic operations also based at the North Wilkesboro ministry center. Key affiliated entities include the World Medical Mission, which places Christian medical professionals in hospitals like Tenwek Hospital in Kenya, and the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team, which deploys crisis-trained chaplains. The structure includes regional offices across Africa, Latin America, and Eastern Europe.

Programs and operations

Its work is centered on three primary areas: crisis response, community development, and children's ministries. The Operation Christmas Child project, which distributes gift-filled shoeboxes to children in over 100 countries, is its most recognizable program. In disaster zones, it provides emergency shelter, clean water via the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene unit, and medical care through its Disaster Assistance Response Team. Long-term development projects include agriculture training, HIV/AIDS prevention programs, and constructing facilities like schools and clinics. The World Medical Mission supports Christian hospitals globally and operates the Samaritan's Purse Emergency Field Hospital for acute crises.

Controversies and criticism

The organization has faced significant criticism for linking its humanitarian work to Christian evangelism and for its leadership's public stances on socio-political issues. Franklin Graham's comments on Islam, LGBTQ rights, and his support for political figures like former U.S. President Donald Trump have drawn controversy. Its requirement for employees to adhere to a Statement of Faith has led to allegations of discrimination. Furthermore, the proselytizing nature of programs like Operation Christmas Child has been criticized by groups such as Americans United for Separation of Church and State and some mainline Protestant churches, who argue it exploits vulnerable populations.

Financial information

As a registered 501(c)(3) organization, it is funded through private donations from individuals, churches, and corporations. It consistently receives high ratings from charity watchdog groups like Charity Navigator and ECFA for its financial efficiency and transparency. Annual revenue often exceeds $500 million, with a significant portion allocated to international programs. Financial disclosures show that over 80% of expenditures are directed toward program services, including disaster relief and sustainable development projects. Major fundraising events include seasonal campaigns tied to Operation Christmas Child and emergency appeals for specific crises like the Syrian civil war or the COVID-19 pandemic.