It was projected nearly 168 million people across the world would need humanitarian assistance and protection in 2020. Bringing that number a little closer to home, think about your circle of family, friends, coworkers, etc. You can likely think of at least 45 people. Out of them approximately 1 was projected to need assistance in 2020.
On a worldwide scale, the assistance may include
- Assisting refugees displaced by conflict
- Creating emergency relief for individuals who have lost their homes and livelihood
- Providing effective, low-cost solutions for children’s survival including access to vaccinations and mental health services
- Mobilizing food and funds for feeding operations
- Providing access to safe water for drinking, cooking and personal hygiene
- Assisting farmers with re-establishing production after floods, outbreaks, livestock disease, etc.
- Responding to health emergencies of all kinds from disease outbreaks to natural disasters
The humanitarian workers who advocate for and provide these services can find themselves in the midst of attacks. In 2019, 225 aid workers were killed, 234 wounded and 124 kidnapped.
On this World Humanitarian Day, the world remembers these humanitarian workers and honors those who continue to provide life-saving support and protection. Here are ways you can contribute and make a difference too!
- Donate to a humanitarian organization either monetarily or by providing supplies. This could be through organizations like American Red Cross, The Salvation Army, Bridge Street Mission, Wausau Community Warming Center, etc.
- Volunteer with an organization in your community. Check out Campus News for a weekly list of high-need volunteer opportunities or visit your local United Way’s website for their Volunteer Connection.
Contact your elected leaders letting them know about the humanitarian causes near and dear to your heart. Ask them to commit to actions to make lasting change.