Silver Spring, Maryland— The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) is providing essential nourishment for vulnerable children in Mali, one of the poorest countries in the world.

The West African nation suffers from low literacy, low per capita income, food insecurity, and limited infrastructure. Mali has one of the world's lowest life expectancies and highest under-five mortality rates.

The region of Gao, located in eastern Mali, along with the regions of Mopti and Timbuktu, is extremely food insecure.

In response, ADRA Mali is implementing Food for Life, a one-year project to distribute food to malnourished children at health centers and schools in nomad locations. HELP International and ADRA Germany, in partnership with the World Food Programme (WFP), are financing this project.

From January to December 2007, ADRA plans to distribute in Gao a minimum of 180 tons of enriched flour, 20 tons of oil, and 15 tons of sugar. According to the WFP agreement, the project objectives include improving the nutritional status of children by providing food for children aged six months to 59 months, schoolchildren, and their families.

"Though Mali is the fourth poorest country in the world, it has been a challenge to find donors," said Karla Leitzke, ADRA Mali country director. "That is why, in the name of the Malian people, especially the children, we want to thank HELP International and ADRA Germany, among other donors committed to Mali, for giving priority to one of the most vulnerable countries in this world, and making the difference here."

ADRA is also planning future food-for-work and food-for-training projects in the region. Proposed activities for this second phase include improving home gardens through innovative systems, literacy classes, and education classes in health, hygiene, and sanitation.

ADRA is present in 125 countries, providing community development and emergency management without regard to political or religious association, age, gender, or ethnicity.

-END-

Media Contact: Nadia McGill ADRA International 12501 Old Columbia Pike Silver Spring, MD 20904 Phone: 301.680.5145 E-mail: Media.Inquiries@adra.org