PWRDF announces $50,000 for famine and drought relief in East Africa

This story is an update from a previous post.

In response to the famine in South Sudan and the drought in Kenya, PWRDF has announced two grants of $25,000 each to Act Alliance, our relief work partner.

On February 20, the United Nations declared a state of famine in the north central part of the South Sudan. Compounded by conflict, unfavourable rains and a collapsing economy, now more than 40% of the population – 4.9 million people – are unsure where their next meal will come from. These already-shocking numbers may increase to 5.5 million if nothing is done to improve access to food.

PWRDF began working with the Sudanese Development and Relief Agency of the Episcopal Church of South Sudan and Sudan in 2016, through ACT Alliance, to fund much-needed supplies to refugee camps in Uganda, such as hygiene items, blankets, clothing and kitchen kits. The grant also covered the costs of building community and school latrines and communal shelters for the most vulnerable, as well as classroom supplies and teacher training. These create safe spaces for children and families. It is critical to provide as much peace and sense of ‘normal’ as possible.

On February 9, Kenyan President H.E Uhuru Kenyatta declared the ongoing drought a national disaster. Almost half of its 47 counties are in a state of emergency, with the worst affected in rural areas where livestock are dying at the rate of 5% and compromised crop production is predicted in coming months. PWRDF will support the work of ACT Alliance and its partners, Finn Church Aid, Lutheran World Federation, Church World Service and National Council of Churches.

In the months to come, PWRDF will continue to monitor the needs of the people of South Sudan and Kenya as they struggle to survive. We will stay attuned to where the needs are highest and, with our partners on the ground, respond to the best of our abilities.

PWRDF is accepting donations for South Sudan and Kenya and will continue to update Anglicans across Canada on the tragedy of this situation, as well as our response and impact. We thank you for your prayers and support.

(When donating through our online giving, please indicate “Emergency Response” in the drop down menu, and type South Sudan and Kenya in the area indicated.)