Armenia: The SDC and the World Food Programme support refugees

This article was first published on a page of the UN World Food Programme. Read the original here.

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) welcomed a CHF 500,610 (approximately USD 555,000) contribution from the Government of Switzerland to support thousands of families who have fled military hostilities and sought refuge in Armenia. Through the aid approved by the Swiss Development Agency (SDC), which Switzerland has been providing since November 1, it is intended to provide emergency humanitarian aid to those most in need. 

This initiative is in line with WFP’s project, "Resilience and Economic Recovery of Border Communities in Armenia" and follows a two-pronged approach, focusing on meeting immediate food needs, while also fostering socio-economic recovery and integration of refugees. Launched in 2022 and targeting 15 border settlements in three regions, activities under the project include cash assistance, employment support, social work support, boosting of agricultural income and empowering communities to build resources and skills. 

More than 100,600 people have fled into Armenia as the conflict intensified last September and they all face significant challenges in securing essential needs including food and psychological support to cope with the trauma and stress they have endured. 

WFP closely collaborates with both national and international partners in Armenia to support Government efforts and ensure the effective delivery of food assistance to the people.