For a child struggling with hunger, even the simplest parts of everyday life can become a challenge. Without proper nutrition, concentrating in school, staying healthy, and keeping up with classmates can feel like an uphill battle. According to the World Food Programme, more than 100 million children in low- and lower-middle-income countries go hungry every day, threatening their health, development and ability to learn.

In South Sudan*, years of conflict, widespread poverty, and food insecurity have left millions of people struggling to meet their most basic needs. Children are especially vulnerable, facing the consequences of hunger during some of the most important years of their development.

Thankfully, our Salesian missionaries are working to ensure that hunger does not stand in the way of a child’s chance to learn and thrive.

Through a partnership between Salesian Missions and Rise Against Hunger, more than 20,000 people in South Sudan have received improved nutrition through the distribution of fortified rice meals. This assistance provides much-needed nourishment to families and gives children the chance to focus on their education instead of their survival.

At the Don Bosco Primary School in Gumbo, a young student named Mary has experienced the difference firsthand. Before, hunger made it hard to focus in class. But with nutritious meals now available at school, she can concentrate on her studies and participate more fully in her education.

“No child should have to worry about where their next meal will come from” says Father Michael Conway, Director of Salesian Missions. “Our missionaries are dedicated to restoring a sense of normalcy in the lives of young people who have already endured far too much uncertainty.”

While the challenges facing families in South Sudan remain immense, we continue to provide vital assistance to those in need. With the generosity of our supporters and humanitarian partners, they are helping children receive the nourishment they need today so hunger does not determine what they can achieve tomorrow.

But the global hunger crisis remains far from over. Through continued generosity and collaboration, our Salesian missionaries are turning essential food assistance into much-needed relief for families who need it most.

Learn more about our work in South Sudan.

Our mission is to feed hungry children and families in the most impactful way possible through partnerships with other humanitarian organizations. What’s your mission?

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.