Hurricane Matthew - Emergency Food Assistance in Cuba - World Food Program 2016

October 2016 – On October 4 Hurricane Matthew a Category 4 storm tore through the Caribbean. In Cuba Matthew was the most powerful hurricane on record to have swept through Guantanamo province causing widespread damage flooding and displacement with severe impacts on the agricultural and livestock sector. With GAC’s support the World Food Program (WFP) is helping to meet the food needs of up to 180 000 people in the most affected regions of Guantanamo and Holgiun provinces in Cuba. Project activities include: (1) distribution of food assistance to meet immediate needs; and (2) coordination and logistical support to relief efforts.

The expected outcomes for this project include: (1) improved access to food for hurricane-affected people; (2) increased access to micronutrient supplements for vulnerable groups including children and pregnant and breastfeeding women; and (3) enhanced coordination of the response. The expected ultimate outcome is lives saved suffering alleviated and human dignity maintained in countries experiencing humanitarian crises or acute food insecurity.