2007 WFP/Eddie Gerald
News of food shortages are far from new and have now become a staple in the news headlines. Countries across the globe are working tirelessly to grapple with the the spiraling food costs. The Result of much of the cuts to save one country have left others in even more desperate situations, as food aid is dramatically cut. The agency set to feed the worlds poor is struggling to meet the needs of some 73 million this year alone, a substantial majority of which are children.
“Price increases have ballooned WFP's 2008 costs from an original calculation of $2.9 billion to at least $3.4 billion today — and that doesn't include new, unanticipated needs as sky-rocketing food prices squeeze the world's poor”
( UN steps up donor appeal as food aid costs grow).
In response the World Food Program (WFP) has launched an “extraordinary emergency appeal”, urging governments to donate some $500 million over the next four weeks.
“We urge your government to be as generous as possible in helping us to close this gap – which stood at USD 500 million on February 25 and has been growing daily,” WFP Executive Director Josette Sheeran wrote.
The appeal letter is aimed at avoiding rationing food aid, was sent to donor countries, claiming that if funds where not in hand by May 1, the effects would be hardest on those who needed it most. The food rations, would gravely impact those countries who are in the most need, and who's people are heavily reliant on the rest of the world for protection and support.
Food costs are quickly rising, wages are not and the he harsh reality is that while food may line the shelves, the will be no one who can afford to buy it in some areas.