Funded ProjectsFighting COVID-19 Through Global Vaccine Distribution

As a relentless advocate for children around the world, UNICEF delivers the essentials that give every child an equitable chance in life: health care and immunizations, safe water and sanitation, nutrition, education, emergency relief and more. Even before the World Health Organization declared the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) a global health emergency, the organization used its global might and resources to mobilize quickly, rushing six metric tons of medical supplies to the front lines. In the first half of 2020 alone, UNICEF distributed critical humanitarian supplies, COVID-19 protection, and hygiene items worth more than $420 million. Throughout the year, UNICEF went on to reach 73.7 million people with soap, water, and hygiene supplies.

Now UNICEF is leading global efforts to deliver two billion doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to 180 countries. As the largest single COVID-19 vaccine buyer in the world, UNICEF is playing a vital role in what could possibly be the largest and fastest procurement and distribution of vaccines to date.

“This year has presented extraordinary challenges to the well-being of children around the world,” UNICEF USA President & CEO Michael Nyenhuis said. “The effects of a rapidly changing climate, civil unrest, and a global pandemic have radically changed how young people navigate life.”

The Foundation gives annually to support humanitarian aid in Chris’ memory, and in light of the global pandemic, the Foundation awarded a $3,000 grant to UNICEF USA to assist in their vaccine distribution efforts.

“Chris was passionate about helping end human injustice and suffering,” CMF President Kendall Mikesell said. “We want to help fund this critical emergency response effort. We are pleased to make this grant, and we know Chris would be, too.”

To learn more about UNICEF’s worldwide COVID relief efforts, visit their website.