How can individuals make a difference when challenges are so big?

This past year has been another marked by seemingly endless humanitarian crises. The devastation and suffering caused by violent conflict and climate disasters are ever present in today’s headlines. While this is an era defined by the uncertainty that lies ahead, we know what’s possible when we take action.

It is easy to lose sight of what is possible for communities across the globe. Some challenges seem too big, too complex, too difficult to overcome. What can we do? What difference will it make? But it is in moments like these—when so many of us feel most helpless—that we as people find our courage, unite, and help shape a brighter world however we can.

Over the course of this year, we have seen what we can do—together. In the generosity and shared optimism of our supporters and partners. In the tenacity of our team members. And in the determination of communities of people living amid extreme challenge and crisis. Every day, we witness that collective action has the power to help people cope, adapt, and even thrive when new paths are uncovered, smart solutions are embraced, and hard work takes shape.

When we take action, our world transforms

We’re proud to share the following stories about our work in different communities across the globe—and people who are forging a brighter future themselves and their families. The shared determination and the collective action featured in these stories are a reminder of what we can do, together.

Gaza: Together, we are finding ways to help

As millions of lives have been upended by the ongoing conflict, Mercy Corps continues to advocate for ceasefire and partner across the region to deliver food, shelter supplies, and cash assistance to those in urgent need. This past April, our team reopened a program to help children and young people build collaboration skills and emotional wellbeing, as they cope with the stress and trauma of conflict.

Ukraine: Together, we are rebuilding economic resilience

Since the full-scale war began in 2022, Mercy Corps has provided support to hundreds of thousands of conflict-affected people in Ukraine and neighboring countries. After receiving grants and assistance from local partners, businesses grappling amid war are finding ways to re-open, hire new employees, and bolster their local economies.

And with financial assistance, people are farming more food for their communities to help overcome the consequences of war.

Sudan: Together, we are responding to evolving crisis

When conflict erupted in 2023, Mercy Corps was able to adapt our existing programming and better meet the needs of people caught in the spiraling humanitarian crisis who are now facing starvation at historic levels. The cash assistance our team distributes helps families buy the food, medicine, and the supplies they need most, while our support for farmers lays the groundwork for long-term resilience and recovery after the violence ends.

Ethiopia: Together, we are growing a brighter future

In recent years, the Horn of Africa has been hard hit by climate-driven drought. In Ethiopia, our team is working with communities to improve water access, increase food production of farmers and livestock producers, and open new opportunities for the future.

Mercy Corps is also partnering to electrify refugee settlements with solar-hybrid mini-grids, connecting both displaced and host communities with a reliable way to grow skills, run businesses, and build their livelihoods.

Our commitment to transformational change

In spite of the steady stream of challenges that our world is grappling with every day, Mercy Corps’ teams are steadfast in a belief that we can create positive change when we work together. It’s a value we share with the communities we work alongside, our partners, and our supporters—and one that’s shaping a future for everyone to share.