The World Food Program USA
Sri Lanka Target Fund
Food Insecurity during the Economic Crisis
The Sri Lankan economic crisis had a devastating impact on access to food for locals. Soaring inflation, a rapidly depreciating currency, and shortages of essential goods made it increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens to afford basic food items. The skyrocketing prices of staples such as rice, vegetables, and cooking oil pushed many households to the brink of food insecurity. Additionally, disruptions in the supply chain resulted in sporadic availability of food items, leaving people uncertain about where their next meal would come from. This crisis exacerbated the already precarious situation for vulnerable populations, increasing the risk of malnutrition and hunger among Sri Lankan citizens, posing a grave humanitarian challenge for the country.
An example
Food inflation in Sri Lanka has had a profound impact on the dietary habits of its people, pushing them towards less healthy and protein-deficient options. As the cost of essential food items continues to rise, many families are forced to prioritize affordability over nutritional value. This often means opting for cheaper, carbohydrate-heavy staples, such as rice and bread, while cutting back on fresh fruits, vegetables, and protein sources like meat and fish. The increasing prices of nutritious foods make them less accessible to the average household, ultimately contributing to a diet that is imbalanced and deficient in essential nutrients. This shift not only jeopardizes the overall health of the population but also exacerbates the prevalence of malnutrition and related health issues, particularly among vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.
The WFP USA Sri Lanka Target Fund
Working with the World Food Program USA, a target fund was developed for Sri Lanka. This fund was used to raise $25.000 of dedicated funding for Sri Lanka - which went to support the most needy of families, pregnant women, and children, during the economic crisis. See video for the founding program.
This program was successfully founded through the assistance of amazing donors, and delivered $25,000 (approximately 50,000 meals) to the most needy during the height of the economic crisis.
