Grant aids displaced people in South Sudan

Brethren Disaster Ministries has directed an allocation of $15,000 from the Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF) to aid displaced people in South Sudan. Fighting that began in Dec. 2013 has resulted in the displacement of more than 200,000 people in South Sudan.

Heavy fighting started in Juba, the capital city, on Dec. 15, apparently between supporters of the president of South Sudan and an ousted leader. The conflict has spread since December to affect seven of the ten states in the country, reports Brethren Disaster Ministries, resulting in more than 200,000 people being displaced. Most are still displaced in South Sudan, although some are fleeing into Uganda, Kenya, and Ethiopia.Even as there seems to be a cease fire, the needs of displaced people become more critical, the report said.

The Church of the Brethren Global Mission and Service program has staff and volunteers working in the Torit area of South Sudan, where many families are fleeing from the violence further north. This grant will provide emergency support for families in the villages of Lohila and Lafon, both on the road from Jonglei State (northern South Sudan).

The Brethren funds will support the purchase and transport of maize, cooking oil, jerry cans, salt, and soap for those with the greatest needs in these two communities. The distribution will be managed by global mission staffer Athanasus Ungang, with support from local partners.

For more about Brethren Disaster Ministries go to www.brethren.org/bdm. For more information or to donate to the Emergency Disaster Fund go to www.brethren.org/edf.

Source: 2/8/2014 Newsline