(3/25/04) Millions of people in Iraq are rebuilding their lives following war, economic instability, and limited access to medical services. Before the outbreak of hostilities in 2003, over 60% of the population relied on external food assistance. While the international community works to rebuild the country, ERD is providing the Iraqi people with critical assistance such as food, clean water, and health care.

Immediately after the conflict began, ERD provided critical assistance to people seeking shelter and food in the country as well as Jordan, Syria, Turkey, and Iran. ERD helped restock relief distribution centers in Baghdad, Mosul, Kirkuk, and Basra.

ERD's long-term commitment to helping the Iraqi people continued after the war ended. ERD is providing food and primary health care to vulnerable children and families through partner agencies on the ground. Twelve thousand families in the country are receiving emergency food supplies, such as beans, lentils, cooking oil, and canned meat. The food is purchased locally or shipped from Jordan and Syria. A network of churches and mosques serve as distribution centers and provide convenient access to the general population. Food supplies are also being provided to hospitals, orphanages, and elderly living centers.

With support from ERD, some of the most vulnerable children in Iraq are receiving critical health care. Children suffering from malnutrition, diarrhea, and other common illnesses receive care at pediatric hospitals and medical clinics in and around Baghdad. ERD is providing medicines, such as antibiotics, surgical equipment, and medical supplies, such as soaps, eye drops, and bandages. Hygiene kits, including a wash cloth, toothbrush, and toothpaste, are also given to vulnerable children.