International agencies have declared an end to the famine that has threatened the horn of Africa since last fall. The hopeful news was the result of a massive humanitarian response from caring individuals and organizations around the globe.

Despite improved conditions, however, one-third of the population remains in crisis.

The regions of Lower Juba and Bakool are of particular concern. An estimated 325,000 children are acutely malnourished and access to medical treatment is severely restricted.

In addition, families living along the coastal regions are still trying to recover from years of inadequate rainfall and are requiring emergency financial support to compensate for the devastating loss of their farming livelihood.

Agencies responsible for monitoring the situation fear that shortages will worsen in several regions once food supplies from the current harvest are exhausted, which is expected to happen by May. This will leave many children and families – those who barely survived the famine so far – in a desperate need of food until the next harvest in August.

Our Salesian missionaries in the region remain committed to the victims of the famine, particularly those who are still suffering. Our food aid distribution network – coordinated by Don Bosco Planning and Development Office and Don Bosco Kakuma – continues to serve children and families in need and, with your help, Salesian Missions will sustain its support until the crisis subsides.

It only takes $25 to feed an entire family for a month – and such a small contribution can make a big difference between life and death. To give to this mission, select “African Famine Fund.” We sincerely appreciate any support you can give to help the drought victims in northern Africa and thousands of others we serve in more than 130 countries around the globe.