By Desmion Dizney | Directora
Summary
Two million Ecuadorians suffer from severe hunger according to the World Food Program. Food insecurity in Cuenca, Ecuador has been impacted by the mass migration of Venezuelan refugees, COVID, a host of natural disasters, two national strikes, and now extreme drought. This drought is perhaps the greatest challenge yet. Ecuador is dependent on hydroelectric power and without rain there is no electricity. The entire country is experiencing blackouts of 10 - 12 hours every day. Everything from agriculture to industry has been severely impacted and the economy is struggling more than ever. The people at the bottom of the socio-economic ladder have the fewest resources and suffer the most.
The Cuenca Soup Kitchen is committed to providing food and other assistance to families experiencing food insecurity in Cuenca, Ecuador. By addressing food insecurity, CSK provides greater access to health, education, and a more productive future. Because the current crisis has increased the number of people experiencing food insecurity, the number of people on our waiting list continues to increase.
Challenge
Food insecurity creates an often insurmountable burden for families. As a family's resources are dedicated to the daily search for food, education and health often suffer, thereby creating a cycle of poverty and food insecurity for generations to come.
Solution
By providing food kits the Cuenca Soup Kitchen decreases food insecurity, improves health, and gives families the ability to improve their futures. Each applicant is screened and monitored by a social worker. All children must attend school. As applicants reach stability they are transitioned out of the program and families from our waiting list are brought in.
Long-Term Impact
Reducing food insecurity positively impacts health both in the short and in the long term. It diminishes child malnutrition. It also provides opportunity for a better future as families can focus on education, increasing employment opportunities, and earning ability. These are positive impacts for families as well as for the community.
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