From monster storms to civil wars and droughts, here are six of the worst disasters of 2019 that have affected millions of people around the world.
News & Stories
Refugees
From the Field
Syrian refugee children find hope in thankfulness
We asked seven Syrian refugee children in Lebanon what they are thankful for; their answers were surprisingly similar and deeply humbling.
From the Field
Syrian refugee crisis: Facts, FAQs, and how to help
Now in its ninth year, the Syrian refugee crisis is the largest refugee and displacement crisis of our time. Because of the Syrian civil war, 6.7 million people have fled Syria as refugees, putting a strain on the region’s ability to cope, and another 6.2 million people are displaced within Syria.
From the Field
Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh: Facts, FAQs, and how to help
Since Aug. 25, 2017, more than 740,000 people from Myanmar have fled to Bangladesh because of extreme violence in northern Rakhine State. Most identify as Rohingya, a Muslim minority ethnic group. Impoverished and living in camps, they depend on aid for survival.
From the Field
How and where World Vision is responding to disasters
World Vision is on the ground before, during, and after disasters to help children and families not just cope, but thrive.
From the Field
Venezuelan girl excels in school after toiling on Colombian streets
Jheyde, 13, is among more than 1 million Venezuelans in Colombia who left because of hunger and poverty. She finally found stability and success in school.
From the Field
Boy’s family goes hungry in Colombia so he can pursue dream
Venezuela is in crisis. The economy has collapsed, and an uprising of political opposition to President Nicolas Maduro has put the country’s leadership in question. Armando is one of more than 4 million Venezuelans — 5,000 per day in 2018 — who have left the country seeking food, work, and a better life.
Change Makers
Lopez Lomong runs for refugees and clean water
Two-time Olympian Lopez Lomong, a Lost Boy of Sudan, was kidnapped and imprisoned, spent 10 years in a refugee camp, and was eventually adopted by a U.S. family. Today, he continues to run and to raise funds and advocate for clean water and South Sudanese refugees.
From the Field
DRC conflict: Facts, FAQs, and how to help
Conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) threatens the lives of millions of children affected by fighting, hunger, diseases, and poverty.
From the Field
Innovative solutions help refugees in need worldwide
Through innovative responses to refugee crises, World Vision is investing in a better life today and a better future for refugees, especially children. Learn what innovation solutions World Vision is implementing in refugee camps.