Dr. Jack Hickel of the Alaska Health Project South Sudan warns that funding cuts to USAID may lead to catastrophic consequences for children in South Sudan, including famine and loss of access to vital vaccinations. The organization has provided significant aid since 2008, but ongoing refugee crises increase demands for resources. Hickel urges Alaskans to advocate for U.S. funding and seek donations for humanitarian assistance.
Dr. Jack Hickel, president of the Alaska Health Project South Sudan, has expressed grave concerns regarding the impact of U.S. government funding cuts to USAID programs on children in South Sudan. The organization focuses on improving access to drinking water and food security in one of the world’s most impoverished regions. Dr. Hickel stated, “Even today, it hasn’t changed much; there’s no roads, there’s no electricity, no sanitation, no running water.”
Since its establishment in 2008, the Alaska Health Project South Sudan has drilled over 107 wells and helped around 100,000 individuals in the region. While funding largely derives from Alaskans, the nonprofit also depends on partner organizations that receive USAID funding. Concerns are mounting as the Trump administration aims to reduce the scope of USAID, resulting in significant job losses among U.S.-based staff.
Dr. Hickel highlighted the escalating needs created by the influx of over a million refugees from the ongoing war in Sudan into northern South Sudan, which intensifies the demand for essential resources. He cautioned that reduced funding for food and medicine could lead to disastrous consequences, including widespread famine and loss of life. “All the vaccines that we give kids — that save lives, that save kids — those vaccines are going to stop,” he warned.
In response, Dr. Hickel urges Alaskans to contact their elected representatives to advocate for the restoration of USAID funding. He believes raising awareness about the dire situation is crucial in mobilizing support for the region. Additionally, the Alaska Health Project South Sudan is actively seeking donations to expand its humanitarian efforts to address the increasing suffering in the area.
In conclusion, the Alaska Health Project South Sudan, led by Dr. Jack Hickel, faces significant challenges due to proposed budget cuts to USAID programs, which could severely impact the well-being of children and families in South Sudan. With critical resources at stake, there is an urgent call for Alaskans to advocate for policy restoration and provide financial support to enhance humanitarian efforts in the region.
Original Source: www.alaskasnewssource.com
