Across East Africa, millions of children and families are facing starvation due to extreme and persistent drought and instability. Famine has already been declared in areas of South Sudan and Somalia is at critical risk of slipping into this state. Severe food shortages are also occurring.
In response to this crisis, One Young World Ambassador Jerome Jarre created a movement to rally immediate relief for those with immediate needs, starting with Somalia. Jerome started a crowdfunding campaign which raised nearly $3 million in 72 hours. These funds were used to purchase food and water in Somalia which has been distributed to children and families in urgent need. Jerome and the Love Army for Somalia have partnered with the American Refugee Committee, whose experience delivering aid in Somalia will ensure the supplies purchased will be delivered effectively and responsibly.
To support these efforts, One Young World provided the Love Army for Somalia Scholarship which has enabled one young leader working in Somalia and playing an impactful role in relief efforts to participate in the forthcoming One Young World Summit in Bogotá, Colombia.