Internally displaced people (IDPs) -- primarily ethnic minority groups who have fled insecure areas of the country -- are among those hardest hit by the severe conditions. Most live in tents or adobe houses without heat. They have no source of income to purchase warm clothing, blankets, food or fuel. Some have cattle, but cannot afford to buy fodder to sustain the animals through winter. A large number of the IDPs are women, children, and the elderly.

"These families have already endured the trauma of leaving their homes for safety. It is critical to prevent them from being victimized again by the effects of the harsh weather conditions on their basic chances for survival," says Julie Petrie, ERD's program officer for the Asia region.

ERD is partnering with Hungarian Interchurch Aid through Action by Churches Together (ACT) International to distribute relief packages containing coal and blankets, along with insulation materials such as straw and foil. Food items including oil, tea, sugar, salt, rice and beans are also provided. Four-hundred of the most vulnerable families -- more than 3,200 individuals -- living in four camps will receive relief packages.

To help families affected by the severe winter weather in Afghanistan, make a donation to ERD's "Emergency Relief Fund" here, or by calling 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development "Emergency Relief Fund," PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.