SRi Lanka

Economy in Crisis

An economic crisis has pushed families deeper into poverty and hunger.

26%

of the population lives
below the poverty line

1/3

of children under 5
are malnourished

42%

of households are turning to coping strategies such as skipping meals

instability & poverty

The widespread effects of the unprecedented economic crisis that overtook Sri Lanka in 2022 are still heavily felt across the country. Over a quarter of the population is now estimated to live below the poverty line, which hurts their access sufficient, nutritious food.

The country also faces significant threats from climate risks. Weather extremes such as droughts, floods and landslides are heightening food and nutrition insecurity, posing risks to people’s health and diminishing agricultural yields.

WFP’s Work in Sri Lanka

Despite the challenges, here’s how we’re fighting hunger and building sustainability.

Photo: WFP/Josh Estey/2022
Photo: WFP/Josh Estey/2022
Nutrition

WFP works to prevent malnutrition by providing food and cash assistance to families. We also support the production of fortified foods that are designed to improve nutrition for mothers and young children ages 3-5.

Photo: WFP/2024
School Meals

We support over 1,500 schools through our WFP’s homegrown school meals program, which sources food from local small-scale farmers. These nutritious meals keep children nourished and focused in the classroom.

Photo: WFP/Mehedi Rahman/2022
Building Resilience

WFP helps farmers build resilience to climate shocks by providing them with better access to forecasts and resources, improving post-harvest management and strengthening their access to markets and agricultural supplies.

You Can Help Save Lives

When you donate, you help us deliver critical food relief to the most vulnerable people in Sri Lanka and other countries around the world. You can make difference in someone’s life – send food today.