UNICEF is working with partners to provide essential support and services to the more than 650,000 children and adolescents living in areas affected by the eruption of Guatemala’s Fuego volcano. Over 12,000 people have been evacuated so far, while some 3,700 people – including hundreds of children – are now staying in emergency shelters.
“During emergencies like this, children may lose access to proper food and nutrition, healthcare, protection, safe water and sanitation,” said Carlos Carrera, UNICEF Representative in Guatemala.
“It is imperative that we ensure affected children, including those now living in shelters, stay healthy and safe from disease and violence.”
UNICEF teams in Guatemala have conducted a joint assessment of the situation with the Government and its partners to determine the urgent needs of children and their families, and coordinate response actions, including:
