Emergency Appeal launched for YMCA work in Southern Sudan

3 April 2009
Southern Sudan rarely makes headlines, and yet in the areas bordering with DR Congo and Uganda, the humanitarian situation is desperate. 17,000 people have now taken refuge in the town of Yambio after falling victims to brutal violence, looting and killing by the Ugandan Lord's Resistance Army.

The health and nutritional risks for the internally displaced population, particularly children and young people, are extremely high. YMCA Yambio is planning to provide emergency support to 2,500 people taking refuge in three locations in Yambio town: Hai Soudia, Makpandu, and Hai Malekiah.  The planned support includes the provision of supplementary food, blankets, treated mosquito nets and other non-food items, as well as counselling and trauma services for those affected by rape, and sexual abuse.

Pledging support

To support this life saving work, the World Alliance has launched an appeal for 41,340 USD, and urges YMCA National Movements to support this appeal.  The World Alliance would like to extend its thanks to those YMCAs who have already pledged their support, including YMCA Belfast  that pledged 5,000 USD. 

For further information on the appeal please contact Simon Pluess at the World Alliance: simon(at)ymca.int