Dear john, 

How many times have you washed your hands today? In the midst of the spread of COVID-19, handwashing has been brought to the forefront of our daily routines. For children in Mozambique, Malawi, Madagascar, Swaziland and Zimbabwe, handwashing is not only an important safety precaution, but is also a critical step toward a bright, healthy future.  

As the coronavirus spreads, Rise Against Hunger continues to assess how to best support those we serve in this time of uncertainty. With limited resources, vulnerable communities in developing countries are at a greater risk of contracting illness and disease, including COVID-19. Poor nutrition and hygiene can cause an even more rapid spread. By supporting initiatives like our school nutrition and hygiene programs, you can be a part of the solution.

To mitigate the danger of diseases like COVID-19 in communities we serve, Rise Against Hunger is promoting Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) activities alongside nutritious meals, in programs like our South Africa School Feeding Initiative. Providing soap, hygiene education and handwashing demonstrations, at schools is especially powerful when combined with the distribution of daily meals. Education on the link between good hygiene and food and nutrition is vital.

With your support, we strive to be part of the solution for vulnerable communities in times of crisis, and year-round. Together we can slow the spread of illness and disease and protect those who are already at a higher risk.

On behalf of those we serve, thank you for your continued support.