The most severe drought in decades is threatening the lives of more than 11 million people—especially young children—in East Africa. Famine has been declared in parts of southern Somalia and threatens to spread further if nothing is done to prevent it. Kenya and Ethiopia are also severely affected by the crisis, with millions in critical need of food and water.
Insufficient rains have created drought conditions throughout East Africa, destroying crops and killing livestock. Malnutrition and disease are on the rise as families travel long distances in search of food. Record high food prices, internal conflicts and insecurity in the region further exacerbate the situation. Thousands of refugees are pouring across the border to Kenya and surrounding countries in a desperate effort to survive.
In partnership with Foursquare leaders in Kenya, Foursquare Relief and Compassion is responding by raising awareness and support to provide aid to those who need it most in this area. Ted Vail (project director for Foursquare Relief and Compassion) and Chad Isenhart (assessment coordinator) are working closely with Humberto Paz, Foursquare Missions International’s (FMI) area missionary to Africa and the leaders of the Kenya Foursquare Church to strategically reach those affected by the tragedy in East Africa.
Plans to provide essential food and water are underway at this time through our Kenya Foursquare family. In Somalia, where there currently is no Foursquare presence, Foursquare will be working through partnership organizations to assess needs and respond, as we are able.
Join us as we pray for the millions suffering in East Africa. Please consider supporting our efforts to reach these affected peoples. Your financial gifts will provide food and essentials to those who are in critical need of aid at this time, and enable us to reach people with the tangible love and compassion of Jesus Christ in this most urgent hour.
To give to Foursquare Relief and Compassion, logon to give.foursquare.org/relief. For updates on the situation in East Africa, visit reliefandcompassion.org.
Download a United Nations map that shows the location of drought in East Africa (JPG, 115 KB)
