Heifer International helps its participants in many ways,but one thing we generally dont take on is emergency aid. Groups like the RedCross are much more capable of organizing that kind of operation. But occasionally,when our projects are harmed by big natural disasters and we find ourselves inthe best position to assist, Heifer can help get people back on their feet.
Right now in Cambodia, Heifer International is bringingmuch-needed food aid to families affected by recent flooding. With funding fromthe World Food Program (WFP), Heifer is distributing food to 1,101 families,including many who were not current participants in Heifer projects.
Riem Kei and her children, from Kandol Village |
Helping poor and vulnerable people is our priority. Wewere so sad to see the people whose living conditions had just beenimproved through our projects be devastated by the floods that almost washedaway their hope, said Heifer Cambodia director Keang Keo. Our staff is veryhappy to see their smiles return through this wonderful partnership with WFP.
36-year-old Heifer project participant Riem Kei saw herfamilys tiny rice plot destroyed by the flooding, along with her home gardenand most of the familys chickens. Kei has had to borrow money from herneighbor for food. Her family also has had flood-related health problems,including fever and diarrhea.
The assistance, totaling about $165,000 in food aid, willcontinue to be distributed through February 2012.