World Food Program USA Statement on Earthquake Impacting Ecuador and Peru

Our hearts go out to the people in Ecuador and Peru impacted by a 6.8 magnitude earthquake that hit southern Ecuador today. Early news reports indicate that there has been loss of life and widespread damage. We are closely monitoring the unfolding situation and stand ready to support emergency relief efforts.

Ecuador is highly prone to natural disasters, resulting in loss of life, livelihoods and infrastructure. The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has operated in Ecuador and Peru for years. In January 2023, the U.N. World Food Programme assisted more than 61,000 people in Ecuador with hot meals and vouchers. In Peru, it assisted more than 38,000 people with food and cash assistance.

As the world’s leading humanitarian organization, the U.N. World Food Programme is uniquely positioned to support the world’s most vulnerable when disaster strikes. From Syria and Türkiye to now Ecuador and Peru, we remain committed to the people on the ground and will do everything we can to support families in their time of need. But we can’t do it without the support of our donors. Please join us as we work to feed millions of vulnerable people around the world.

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About the United Nations World Food Programme  

The U.N. World Food Programme is the world’s leading humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

About World Food Program USA 

World Food Program USA, a 501(c)(3) organization based in Washington, DC, proudly supports the mission of the United Nations World Food Programme by mobilizing American policymakers, businesses and individuals to advance the global movement to end hunger. To learn more about World Food Program USA’s mission, please visit wfpusa.org/mission-history.

Media Contact:
Toula Athas
Director, Communications
tathas@wfpusa.org  
202-627-3940