Feed My Starving Children Sends Meals To Africa
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The Horn of Africa's worst famine in 60 years is putting nearly four million people at-risk of starvation in Somalia. But Wednesday, Minnesota-based Feed My Starving Children hoped to make a dent in that.
The organization partnered with members of Minneapolis' Somali community and the group World Relief to send 270,000 meals to Africa.
Volunteers put together life-saving meals for the babies and young children who are at greatest risk of death during the food crisis in Somalia.
It will take 50 days to get the more than 270,000 meals to the areas where they are needed most.
"Here we are in Coon Rapids today on August 24, heading to Chicago, Norfolk, Virginia through the Mediterranean to Port Said, I understand that is in Egypt, Jeddah, Berber and that's where it is going to be actually unloaded and then by truck that long road down into lower Shabelle," said Michael Neterer from World Relief, while pointing at the map of their journey.
The trip is dangerous and making sure the food gets there without interference from pirates is the focus of a Somali tribal leader from Minneapolis.
Sultan Aliyoow posted a note on the food asking that it be given to the most needy in his country.
"The Somali words say, 'Please remember, everyone will end up in the next life. Make sure this food gets to the right people. If you try to steal or anything, remember you will answer to God,'" said Sultan Aliyoow.
Until the meals reach those in need, the Somali community is filling the gap, by sending money.
A video from Somalia, which was received Wednesday, shows how their generosity is already saving lives.
Organizers hope to send another container of meals in the next couple of weeks.
The Somali community continues to have fundraisers, to help pay the $18,000 needed to get the meals to remote areas of Somalia where it is needed most.
You can help the families in Somalia by sending a donation right now. Just text the word "manna" to 50555 to give $10 to Feed My Starving Children.
For more ways to donate, click here.
