Japan has agreed to supply approximately $1.1 million toward the World Food Programme’s (WFP) money-starved project targeting vulnerable persons and families in Burma, according to the WFP and the United Nations.

The funds are “critically needed” by the cash-strapped operation, according to a statement released today by the United Nations on behalf of the WFP.

In a country where one-third of the population is believed to subsist below the poverty line, “WFP food assistance activities provide an essential lifeline for thousands of impoverished and marginalized communities,” says Chris Kaye, WFP country Director and Representative.

Currently in the first of its projected three years of supplying desperately needed food stores, the total projected cost of the program is listed at $52 million. However, inclusive of the latest donation from the Japanese government, a mere $11.6 million has been raised to date.

According to the WFP, at risk populations are especially vulnerable at this time of the year, during the monsoon and prior to the next harvest.

At present the WFP’s Burma program benefits communities in Shan and Rakhine States, as well as Magway Division, reaching some 55,500 beneficiaries.

The project is conducted in coordination and cooperation with 20 partner organizations.