AIRDROP
Airdrop is expensive and dangerous but is done when other means of transport is not possible ie. When roads are blocked or washed out. It takes three days to secure a drop, contact local officials and warn locals to stay clear of the area.
Food can weigh 120pounds so it triple wrapped in plastic to survive a 1,600 foot drop.
ONCE ON GROUND
Food is then hauled onto trucks by local villagers and driven to a nearby warehouse to be distributed by different organisations ie. WFP, CARE, Catholic Charities, etc.
Distribution of food is organised to avoid chaos. People present registration cards which contain family details such as ages and number of children to receive food.
SHIP FREIGHT
Ships currently travel from their point of origin to major ports.
Food is then loaded onto trucks, trains, helicopters and planes. Sometimes, camel, elephants, donkeys, yaks and other alternative modes of transport are used because of factors such as availability or terrain difficulties. Land mines and rebel forces are also an issue.
OTHER FORMS OF CONTRIBUTION
Contribution comes in three forms: cash, food and services.
Food is bought from places close by to reduce wasting time and transport costs.
DELIVERING MEALS
Food sent must be transportable and won’t spoil. It is likely that they won’t be able to cook their meals. This costs 30 cents a meal.
People are given basics: cereal, beans, peas, vegetable oil, salt, sugar, wheat, maize or soy flour.
People’s needs are firstly assessed and diet is considered. Rice is often sent to Asian countries. Millet, a common African grain, is sent to African countries.
It’s about keeping people alive, being culturally appropriate and assessing needs.
REBUILDING LIVES
Putting communities back together takes time, work and more nutritious food.
A critical component is its school feeding programs. Children come to school and receive free meals.
Food for work programs help rebuild bridges, dams and wells.
Health programs are implemented and proper nutrition is provided to care for pregnant mothers and ensure babies are born healthy.
“Food is a fundamental building block for healthy societies. The answer for curing hunger long-term is to invest in these programs.” (WFP Officer, Maggie Carrington)
http://www.wiziq.com/tutorial/53758-Food-Force-2
