The COVID-19 pandemic has increased hunger around the world. While everyone has felt the pandemic’s effects, for people in vulnerable areas it has been devastating.
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), the world’s leading hunger-relief organization, estimates that the number of severely hungry people may have increased by 80% — from 149 million pre-COVID-19 to 270 million by the end of 2020 — in the nearly 80 countries it serves.
“We cannot do this critical work alone,” said Barron Segar, president of World Food Program USA. “The U.N. World Food Programme relies on strong partnerships — with governments, individuals, corporations and foundations — to reach people in urgent need. The UPS Foundation is one of these crucial partners.”
Through the years, The UPS Foundation has contributed funds, vital logistics and technical support. In times of emergency, it has provided the U.N. World Food Programme with airlift services and warehouse facilities to deliver and house essential supplies.
As in past crises, UPS is playing an important role in response to COVID-19, increasing its support to meet the rapidly-rising needs around the globe.
“We can keep those in need from falling behind,” Barron said. “Together, we can provide millions of people with the lifesaving food and relief they need to survive this pandemic and get back on their feet when chaos ultimately subsides.”
World Food Program USA (WFP USA) is the recognized leader in America’s pursuit to end global hunger, inspiring citizens to do everything in their power to create a zero-hunger world. To learn more about their mission, please visit here.