Dhaka: The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) today provided emergency food assistance to families affected by the devastating fire that swept through Korail slum on November 25. The fire left hundreds of families displaced, forcing them to seek temporary shelter at BTCL Girls' High School near the affected area. These families lost nearly all their belongings in the fire.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, WFP, in close collaboration with the Department of Disaster Management (DDM), Dhaka North City Corporation, and in partnership with Eco Social Development Organization (ESDO), distributed High Energy Biscuits (HEBs) to 1,900 families. Each family received a five kg carton of HEBs, which are fortified with essential vitamins, minerals, protein, and carbohydrates. These ready-to-eat biscuits require no cooking or water, making them suitable for emergency situations.
Today's distribution aims to help families meet approximately three days of nutritional needs. HEBs are also a key component of Bangladesh's school feeding programmes, which WFP has supported since 2001. In 2024 alone, WFP responded to Cyclone Remal and multiple floods, reaching 2.8 million people with emergency food, cash, and recovery assistance.
"Following today's distribution, WFP will continue to coordinate with local authorities and humanitarian partners to monitor the situation and stands ready to provide additional assistance if needed," said Simone Parchment, WFP Country Director.