The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) says at least nine million people in Afghanistan, Ukraine, Syria, and Lebanon urgently need assistance to cope with the winter cold.
The agency announced on Friday, October 30, the launch of its annual winter fundraising campaign, saying that funding shortages and rising energy prices have made conditions more difficult for vulnerable families in the four countries.
UNHCR said it aims to raise at least $50 million to support people in need during the coming winter.
The agency said the campaign seeks to mobilize public donations and provide vulnerable families with essential winter supplies.
The United Nations agency added that the fundraising target is $3 million higher than the amount raised during last year’s winter campaign.
UNHCR has made the appeal as a significant reduction in its budget has limited its ability to respond to humanitarian needs.
