In response to the challenging conditions and severe hardship experienced by millions in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras, Vice President Harris has declared an additional $310 million in support from the U.S. government. This aid aims to provide humanitarian relief and address food insecurity.
The humanitarian relief efforts will receive $255 million. USAID is set to allocate $125 million to counteract the effects of ongoing droughts, food shortages, and the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding will offer emergency food assistance, enhance livelihoods, and protect the most vulnerable groups.
The U.S. Department of State will contribute $104 million to address immediate safety and protection needs for refugees, asylum seekers, internally displaced individuals, and other at-risk populations in these regions.
Additionally, the U.S. Department of Defense plans to invest $26 million to bolster partnership activities that deliver crucial health, education, and disaster relief services in Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador.
To tackle food insecurity specifically, $55 million has been allocated. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) intends to provide $25 million towards strengthening Guatemala's agricultural sector while facilitating financing access for farmers to rebuild their livelihoods locally.
Moreover, USDA will dedicate $30 million across Guatemala and Honduras to expand immediate access to daily meals and literacy programs for school children.