Mercy Corps Statement on $5 Billion Aid Package Approved to Address Unprecedented Global Humanitarian Needs

Mercy Corps applauds Congressional leadership for providing more than $5 billion in additional humanitarian and food security assistance to respond to rapidly multiplying needs and rising global food prices driven by the war in Ukraine. The more than $5 billion in aid is part of a nearly $40 billion supplemental package to support Ukraine.

Kate Phillips-Barrasso, Mercy Corps’ Vice President for Global Policy and Advocacy, said: 

“This significant aid package is urgently needed to respond to a perfect storm of conditions—unmitigated conflict, climate impacts, and the economic pummeling of COVID-19—that have pushed an alarming number of people globally into hunger. The infusion of resources will help avert catastrophe for people in Yemen, Afghanistan, and the Horn of Africa, where the worst drought in 40 years is driving 15 million people into severe food insecurity. 

With no end in sight for the Ukraine conflict, this will not be a short-term crisis. We urge Congress to take further action in the face of dire circumstances. They must increase humanitarian and food security assistance through the regular FY23 appropriations process and work with the Administration on crafting a bold agenda to strengthen food systems and build resilience to inevitable future shocks in countries at risk.”