January 28, 2005

Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) is providing emergency assistance to people in northern Burundi suffering from a severe drought. In the provinces of Kirundo, Muyinga, and Ngozi, rain shortages have caused crops to dry up, food shortages are affecting an estimated 20,000 children who are suffering from malnutrition, and at least 350,000 people are in danger of starvation. The number of livestock has decreased dramatically, resulting in a loss of income and food for many people.

"For the last three years, the rains have either been insufficient or have come at the wrong time for crops to be planted, to grow, or to be harvested," reported the Church of Burundi. "Hope diminishes as the little amount of food people have disappears and they become totally dependent on help from others."

Janette O'Neill, program director for Africa, visited the drought affected area in the Province of Kirundo last week. "The situation is urgent. Each day, more people suffer and many die from malnutrition and related illnesses," she said. O'Neill is in Africa visiting ERD's HIV/AIDS and malaria partnership programs.

On behalf of Episcopalians, ERD is providing emergency funds to the Church of Burundi for assistance such as food, drought-resistant seeds, water, and first aid supplies. The assistance will get basic food supplies to vulnerable families.

To make a contribution to help people immediately after disasters, donate to the Emergency Relief Fund at http://www.er-d.org/, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to Episcopal Relief and Development, Emergency Relief Fund, PO Box 12043, Newark, NJ 07101.

Episcopal News Service