UNICEF Canada welcomes emergency assistance to help avert famine

On 4 June 2020 in Yemen, Amal is measured while being screened for severe acute malnutrition at Arhab Health Centre in Sana'a Governorate.

Published on

August 13, 2021

A toxic combination of conflict, climate change and COVID-19 have put millions of people around the world at risk of famine, requiring immediate action to prevent further death and malnutrition, including preventable deaths of young children. COVID-19 alone could lead to an additional 9 million children under 5 suffering from wasting – the most severe form of malnutrition, increasing risk of childhood death.

We welcome the Government of Canada’s $155 million commitment for emergency assistance to help avert famine globally. Canada’s early action will help UNICEF save lives, and builds on longstanding Canadian leadership in addressing malnutrition and ensuring timely humanitarian action. These funds will help ensure access to essential nutrition, including life-saving Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods, in countries affected by crisis and growing malnutrition.

About UNICEF

UNICEF is the world’s leading humanitarian organization focused on children. We work in the most challenging areas to provide protection, healthcare and immunizations, education, safe water and sanitation and nutrition. As part of the United Nations, our unrivaled reach spans more than 190 countries and territories, ensuring we are on the ground to help the most disadvantaged children. While part of the UN system, UNICEF relies entirely on voluntary donations to finance our life-saving work. Please visit unicef.ca and follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

For further information please contact:

Media@unicef.ca