Help Families Fleeing Famine in Somalia

Hubbie Hussein Al-Haji, leader of Womankind Kenya, recently shared with us a message of thanks from one mother living in the refugee camps of Northern Kenya. We'd like to share her message with you today:

"My young son and I arrived in a refugee camp in Kenya after fleeing famine in Somalia. We lost everything, but I was grateful to still have my child. I saw many mothers burying their children, lost to starvation, on the long walk here. But even at the camp, there was still not enough food. I didn't eat so that my son could eat, and yet he grew weaker. But Womankind Kenya saved him. They gave us food and medicine. We still struggle, but as long as we are alive, with your help, I and other mothers can hope. And that also sustains us. Thank you."

In the photo below, women and girls line up to receive food aid. In northern Kenya, Womankind Kenya is still working to support families displaced by the famine.

MADRE is working with Womankind Kenya to create a mobile health clinic to bring essential medical care to women and their families. The van will be loaded with medicines, doctors and treatment tents and can transport those in need to hospitals. Our partners will offer family planning, HIV prevention resources and counseling. Doctors, nurses and counselors will travel to remote communities with medical supplies, equipment and tents. Our partners will erect the tents for a day or two in each community to treat patients and offer private medical consultation for women.

The mobile health units will do more than meet urgent needs. They will also provide preventative measures such as disease screening, immunization and health education.