In the face of the looming humanitarian crisis in Iraq and neighbouring countries, the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) will begin its response by providing 10,000 refugees with emergency hygiene kits. Each hygiene kit will provide soap, detergent, towels, and other sanitary items.

“ADRA has always played a major role in conflict areas and we will be involved in Iraq as the security situation improves,” said Byron Scheuneman, vice-President of ADRA International. “Historically, ADRA’s response has included immediate shelter and housing reconstruction, water and sanitation, health care and healthcare reconstruction, basic education and education reconstruction, and food distribution. If such needs exist in Iraq, ADRA will respond accordingly,” Scheuneman continued.

ADRA has established the “Iraq Regional Crisis Fund,” donations are invited.

The World Food Program estimates that about 13 million people in Iraq, or 60 percent of the population, are completely dependent on handouts. Eventually, the entire population of Iraq, or 27 million people, may need food for approximately six-months, according to the World Food Program.

Providing individual and community development and disaster relief without regard to political or religious association, age or ethnicity, ADRA is present in more than 125 countries.

Additional information about ADRA can be found on its website at http://www.adra.org