Global Emergency Updates
Learn more about recent events and how CRS is helping.
Global Emergency Update August 2023
Local government, Church and civil society organizations are often the first to respond to crises, and are present in affected communities before, during and after emergencies. And in times of crisis, Catholic Relief Services responds with urgent, lifesaving assistance. We support families and communities as they rebuild their lives, assess their risks, and prepare against future emergencies—a comprehensive approach that focuses on helping people prepare, survive and recover from disasters with dignity.
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Global Emergency Update February 2025
Suspended U.S. Humanitarian Assistance—A series of changes in U.S. international assistance has led to the suspension of vital humanitarian and development programs, which is having dire implications for human life and dignity. Catholic Relief Services teams and partners across the world are witnessing the impacts in real time.
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Global Emergency Update June 2025
Since January 2025, internal conflict has intensified in the eastern provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, leading to the displacement of 4 million people in the region and 7 million across the country.
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Global Emergency Update March 2025
On February 24, 2022, conflict broke out between Russia and Ukraine, sparking the largest human displacement crisis since World War II. Three years later, the impact of the conflict has not abated as the conflict continues to disrupt global supply chains and increase prices of food, fuel and other commodities.
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Global Emergency Update May 2025
The needs of affected and displaced families continue to mount. The earthquake and its aftershocks have pushed 2 million people into critical need of assistance and protection.
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Global Emergency Update July 2025
As we enter hurricane season across the Atlantic and cyclone season across many parts of Asia—a time when natural disasters upend families’ lives, homes and stability—we are assured of one constant: the Catholic Church will be at the front lines, with an outstretched hand and trusted support.
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Global Emergency Update January 2025
Emergency Response and Recovery–Government, Church and civil society organizations are often the first to respond to crises, and are present in affected communities before, during and after emergencies. And when disasters strike, Catholic Relief Services responds with urgent, lifesaving assistance.
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Global Emergency Update October 2023
CRS Responds to Crises Around The World – This is the latest report on Catholic Relief Services’ ongoing emergency response and recovery activities around the world. Our work is possible thanks to the generous support of private and public donors, the dedication of local partners, and the unwavering presence of Caritas and the local Catholic Church. This month, there is a particular focus on the Holy Land. This region has been affected by protracted conflict, violence, and instability, resulting in widespread suffering and displacement. CRS, in collaboration with local partners, is supporting efforts to provide lifesaving aid and long-term assistance to the most vulnerable communities there.
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Global Emergency Update September 2023
Education for Children – Around the world, children are returning to school. For many, the classroom provides structure and routine. But for those whose lives have been disrupted by conflict, natural disaster or any crisis, school has also become a place to heal. CRS is working with families, our local partners, communities and institutions to prioritize safe access to education for children in need.
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Global Emergency Update July 2024
Helping Communities Survive Climate Change — Climate change is causing severe challenges worldwide, especially for people in need. It leads to unpredictable weather, more storms and longer droughts, destroying lives and livelihoods. Catholic Relief Services witnesses these effects everywhere we work and is deeply concerned about the devastating impact climate change is having on families and communities who are least responsible yet most affected by it.
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