Q: How does the U.S. foreign funding freeze (including USAID) impact FMSC’s work?

A: While FMSC does not receive government funding, many of our food distribution partners do. As they face the loss of this support, we are expecting a wave of increased food requests from partners who are already stretched thin.

Each meal you pack, fund and pray over equips FMSC partners to do transformative work around the world. Hunger relief is usually just part of what our partners do — but food is the foundation for so much more.

Here's a look at the state of hunger in two countries where FMSC partners work.

Somalia | Africa

Somalia ranks as the most undernourished country in the world — again. The country endured its longest drought on record from 2020 to 2023, pushing it to the brink of famine. When the rains finally came, they triggered massive floods that destroyed crops and displaced families. Conflict and instability have forced more communities from their homes, while high food prices make staples like rice and flour unaffordable.

Children are always among the most vulnerable. In Somalia, 1.7 million children under age 5 are experiencing acute malnutrition.

Without proper nutrition, they are more vulnerable to diseases like diarrhea and malaria — which can be deadly. Somalia has one of the world’s highest child mortality rates, with 1 in 10 children dying before age 5.

FMSC partners use MannaPack® meals to support our partners’ work in Somalia, including:

• Clean water wells
• Disaster relief
• Hygiene programs

Featured partners: Life for Relief and Development, Unto

Thailand | Asia

Hunger is a serious issue in Thailand, with about 1 in 10 children under 5 facing severe food poverty, threatening their health and development (UNICEF). While food availability has improved, access remains a major barrier, particularly for vulnerable children. Frequent droughts and floods destroy crops, worsening food insecurity.

Poverty, hunger and exploitation are interconnected in Thailand — lack of food leaves people vulnerable to trafficking. Desperate for sustenance, many are lured with false promises of jobs and better opportunities, only to be trapped in forced labor or sexual exploitation. Hunger not only drives people into these situations but also keeps them trapped, as their need for food makes escape difficult.

FMSC partners use MannaPack® meals to support our partners’ work in Thailand, including:

• Anti-trafficking and rescue programs
• Support for displaced families
• Women’s empowerment initiatives

Featured partners: Venture