hunger doesn't look the same in every household
Families experience hunger in different ways and for different reasons. No two families are alike, which is why WAM offers flexible options as opposed to one-size-fits-all feeding projects.
WITNESS AS MINISTRY feeds hungry people through the distribution of hot meals, food parcels, and vouchers.
For example:
- In urgent situations, such as natural disasters, WAM may respond by setting up field kitchens to provide hot meals ready to eat to the affected community.
- For elderly people facing food insecurity, the WAM team may conduct home visits to deliver food parcels.
- For families facing sudden food insecurity, WAM may offer food vouchers which are redeemable at local markets.
So what are food vouchers and how do they work?
STEP ONE:
WAM partners with local markets to implement a food voucher program. With donated funds, WAM distributes vouchers that can be presented to the local market and redeemed for groceries and other essential items.
In this way, local markets are revitalized and local economies are strengthened. Voucher projects help rebuild families and entire communities through economic support.
STEP TWO:
The WAM team distributes vouchers to families facing food insecurity. Whether a family is experiencing a sudden displacement due to war or natural disaster, is navigating an abrupt loss of livelihood, or facing similar catastrophic events, vouchers help meet immediate needs immediately.
WAM vets each recipient family to ensure there is no duplication of aid distribution and that available aid goes where it is most needed as quickly as possible. Often, this aid is the difference between eating or going hungry when families must choose between food and medicine or rent.
STEP THREE:
Families redeem their vouchers at participating partner markets in their communities. These vouchers can be spent like cash, empowering each family to make purchases that meet the specific needs of their unique family.
Vouchers help to preserve the dignity of aid recipients by preserving their choice. Vouchers are also a discreet option in situations where there are security concerns.
