Church aids drought victims
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The Church's humanitarian missionaries are working with priesthood leaders and local humanitarian organizations to coordinate relief efforts on the Horm of Africa — where, during the past two years, consecutive drought seasons have caused extreme food shortages.
The United Nations reports more than 11.5 million people are severely affected in Somalia, Kenya, Ethiopia, Djibouti and Uganda. This number represents a 30 percent increase since the beginning of the year, according to a Church welfare report. United Nations officials say there is no likelihood of improvement until next year.
All missionaries and members in the affected countries are safe. The Church's area leaders and humanitarian staff have identified trusted partners to assist with the distribution of aid in Somalia, Ethiopia and Kenya.
The aid comes at a time when, according to the United Nations more people across the region urgently need assistance, with more than two million children in great need of food. Eastern Africa is facing its driest period in the past 50 years.
