European Union helps WFP reach conflict-affected families in Syria

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has welcomed a new contribution of EUR 8 million from the European Union (EU). The funds will enable WFP to continue its lifesaving food assistance operations in Syria.

“The consistent support of the European Union makes it possible for WFP to continue to reach millions of vulnerable people affected by the Syria crisis with life-saving assistance,” said David Beasley, Executive Director of the World Food Programme. “Steady funding from the EU saves lives and changes lives in Syria.”

The EU is one of WFP’s top five donors in Syria, contributing a total of EUR 202 million since the start of the conflict in 2011. Every month, WFP reaches more than three million people across Syria’s 14 governorates.

“The European Union is committed to assist all those affected by the Syria crisis,” says Christos Stylianides, the European Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management. “We stand committed with our partner WFP to help ease the burden for the millions of people in Syria who every day struggle to find enough to eat.”

Families in need receive food that is sufficient for five people for one month. The food packages include rice, lentils, bulgur wheat, vegetable oil, sugar and salt in addition to bread baked in local bakeries using WFP wheat flour. Newly displaced people with no access to cooking facilities receive parcels of ready-to-eat canned food.

Continued support from donors like the EU remains vital for millions of families as well as for stability and security in Syria.

Original source: WFP
Published on 13 August 2019