Geneva: The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) revealed that it is struggling to secure essential resources this year, as government contributions decline sharply. The agency is now appealing to the public to help raise at least $35 million in donations to ensure life-saving assistance reaches those in dire need.

“Families will have to endure sub-zero temperatures without things we take for granted such as adequate roofing, heating, blankets, warm clothing, and medicine,” said Dominique Hyde, UNHCR’s external relations officer.

The funding crisis stems partly from reductions in foreign aid by major donor countries. During U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, Washington, which once accounted for over 40 percent of the UNHCR’s budget, drastically cut its international aid spending. Other donor nations have since followed suit, leaving humanitarian programs stretched thin.

Hyde warned that budgets for humanitarian aid are now “on the brink of collapse,” adding that winter support will be significantly reduced this year. The UNHCR has urged private sector donors and individuals to step in and help fill the growing funding gap.