New Zealanders responding to the call to help East Africa raise nearly $50,000 so far

As millions face the threat of starvation in East Africa, New Zealanders are responding quickly and generously with nearly $50,000 raised so far.

"This emergency is affecting millions of people in Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia and fortunately Save the Children is already on the ground working to help people affected," CEO Liz Gibbs said.

"Save the Children New Zealand is seeking to raise $250,000 in order to aid the relief effort, to help millions of East Africans who face starvation," Liz Gibbs said.

"Save the Children is already working on the ground in Somalia, Kenya and Ethiopia to deliver water, food grants and health care. But this is the worst drought in 60 years and the need for help is huge.

"We are delivering emergency aid, but also working on long-term solutions to help the area," Liz Gibbs said.

Peter Gitau, a Kenyan now living in New Zealand said the crisis meant that in his home country up to three million people were facing imminent starvation.

"If New Zealanders can help, I know that funds sent to Kenya really will save lives.

"The drought is particularly hard on mothers and children who so often seem to bear the brunt of these disasters."

"I have been told by people working in Kenya that many children a week are dying because of this drought. The need for help is truly urgent," Peter Gitau said.

To donate to this urgent appeal please go to http://www.savethechildren.org.nz or phone: 0800 167 168.

Save the Children's response:

* We are distributing life-saving water to areas severely affected by the drought and improving water supply and sanitation facilities in health clinics and schools.

* We are providing jerry cans, water filters and water purification tablets to ensure that water is safe to drink.

* We are treating tens of thousands of malnourished children and pregnant and breastfeeding women at our emergency feeding centres.

* We are helping families afford nutritious food by distributing food vouchers, whilst supporting the local market to function.

* We are supporting people who have lost their incomes through cash transfers, enabling them to buy essential items for their children.

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