OTTAWA, ON, June 23, 2020 /CNW/ - Championing programs that help people living in poverty build brighter futures is at the heart of Cuso International's work. Thanks to an extremely generous contribution from an anonymous donor, Cuso can broaden its programming to some of the most vulnerable regions in Southeast Asia.
This gift will allow Cuso to maintain a presence in Myanmar, and action other multi-country programs in the ASEAN region, with a focus on gender equality, women and girls' empowerment and economic opportunities for youth. Some of the funds will be applied to awareness efforts of other Cuso initiatives. The region has been part of Cuso's long history since its earliest days in 1961.
In 2019, Cuso programs in Southeast Asia helped improve the lives of 360,000 people across Myanmar, Laos, and the Philippines.
Despite economic gains made in the last decade in these countries, there is growing concern that the combined effects of climate change and COVID-19 will push many millions of people in the region back into poverty. It is estimated that between 19 and 40 per cent of the population lives on an average of $3 USD per day.
"Behind every poverty statistic is a real person facing real challenges," says Glenn Mifflin, CEO of Cuso. "This donation is a testament to the impact of our work, and the tireless efforts of staff and volunteers. It will ensure we can continue to work with our partners in Southeast Asia."
Cuso International is grateful for this life-altering gift from a generous benefactor and looks forward to continuing its life-altering work in Southeast Asia.
About Cuso International
Cuso International is a Canadian not-for-profit organization focused on ending poverty and inequality. Cuso works with local partners to amplify their impact in the areas of gender equality, women and girls' empowerment, and improved economic opportunities for youth. It is supported through gifts from individual donors, as well as institutional funders.
Learn more about Cuso's impact at cusointernational.org.
SOURCE Cuso International
Media Contact: Jessica Cunha, Communications Officer, [email protected], 613-829-7445 x 346 | 1-888-434-2876 x 346
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