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In crisis zones, the fight against COVID-19 is just beginning.

As the first cases are confirmed in Yemen, Syria and Lesbos, Greece, IRC teams are working around the clock to prevent and control the spread of the disease.

We are also working to support refugees and vulnerable families as they face the secondary impacts of COVID-19—rising food costs, job losses and increases in gender-based violence.

This pandemic is going to have far-reaching impacts that could lead to a global, humanitarian disaster. That's why we need long-term support from you to rise to the challenge.

A monthly gift from you could help us to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 for as long as it continues—and provide ongoing, critical aid to families who are now facing multiple crises.

If you start a monthly gift by May 31, your gift will be matched by another generous supporter for the first four months, making an even greater impact.

Start a monthly gift >> [link removed]

Your monthly gift is critical because it helps us respond to continuing humanitarian crises and respond quickly and effectively when new ones, like COVID-19, arise.

As the leader of the IRC's COVID-19 response, I am very concerned about the virus spreading in countries like Bangladesh, Pakistan and Nigeria. Here's why:

- In Bangladesh, the Kutupalong refugee settlement in Cox's Bazar—the world's largest refugee camp—recently confirmed its first case of COVID-19. With more than 855,000 refugees and 444,000 locals living in and around the camps, Cox's Bazar is extremely overcrowded, and refugees are living in cramped conditions ripe for the spread of the virus.

- Pakistan has become increasingly vulnerable to humanitarian crises due to regional instability, climate change and widespread poverty. Earthquakes and monsoon floods frequently affect millions, rendering them homeless and in need of food, water and shelter. The country has over 42,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19—and the government is relaxing its social distancing policies, which will likely catalyze a second wave of cases.

- In Nigeria, violence by armed groups continues, and many newly displaced Nigerians are in need of urgent services. Nigeria has confirmed nearly 6,000 cases, but anecdotal reports suggest there may be widespread outbreaks and deaths in the east of the country—an indicator that the worst is yet to come.

The truth is, it's going to get worse before it gets better.

Countries with weak health systems are already overwhelmed. Even if there is a vaccine, the people we serve will likely be among the last to have access to it.

Right now, IRC teams are delivering essential health services, emergency hygiene kits, public health information and other lifesaving aid in crisis areas worldwide. That’s why it's critical that we have your sustained support.

Families are counting on us to be there for them through this fight.

As a new monthly donor, your first four gifts will be matched up to $50,000. Donate now to provide a steady stream of support to families as they struggle to survive during this unprecedented time in history.

Give $10 monthly >> [link removed]
Give $35 monthly >> [link removed]
Give $50 monthly >> [link removed]
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Thank you so much for joining our dedicated community of monthly supporters.

With humanity,

Bob Kitchen
Vice President, Emergencies
International Rescue Committee









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