Our Story: From Refugees to Missionaries
A Legacy of Mercy Born in 1992The story of Emmanuel Mercy Mission began following the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s. Our founders fled religious persecution and political instability, arriving in the United States as refugees.
Settling in the Pacific Northwest, they experienced firsthand the challenges of starting over in a new land. More importantly, they experienced the overwhelming kindness and support of the American community.
In July 1992, driven by a deep sense of gratitude, they incorporated Emmanuel Mercy Mission in the State of Oregon. What started as a grateful response to their own rescue transformed into a lifelong ministry dedicated to serving individuals caught in severe, sudden international crisis zones.
Our Mission Today: A Bridge of Hope
For over three decades, we have used our unique understanding of Eastern Europe and our established network in the United States to deliver critical humanitarian relief.
Our Primary Focus:Today, our hearts and operations are heavily focused on supporting the resilient people of Ukraine during these devastating times. We provide dedicated funding to purchase and distribute medical supplies, clothing, and winterization materials locally, ensuring displaced families and children are safe, warm, and fed.
Local and Global Relief:As our capacity grows, we continue to anchor our work right here in Oregon and Washington, helping low-income families and new immigrants adapt, while preparing our resources to reactivate heavy transatlantic cargo lines.
As a verified IRS 501(c)(3) public charity, 100% of your contributions are fully tax-deductible. We operate under strict financial stewardship, transparency.
The birthplace of our mission: The residence of Valentina Ovcharenko, where the packing of our first humanitarian aid shipments began on August 1, 1992.
Caption: Watch the personal testimony of our founders on how God guided them from the collapse of the Soviet Union to establishing a sanctuary of relief in Oregon.
EMMANUEL: God is with us
MERCY: To freely give kindness and love to those in need
MISSION: In ministry to share the love of Jesus to the world
Our Promise to You
We promise to use your money with care and to help people in crisis quickly. We promise to make sure that your dollar is used to the maximum for those in need. We promise to be completely transparent and accountable.
📋 Public Disclosures & Financial Accountability (IRS Form 990 Logs):