Each family received enough beans, lentils, rice, oil, sugar, salt and tea to cover its needs for more than two weeks. Teapots, kettles and other items were also distributed.

"Vulnerable groups such as people with physical or mental disabilities, orphans, households headed by women, and the elderly are often forgotten in the midst of violence," said Juan-Pedro Schaerer, head of ICRC delegation for Iraq. "They are generally unable to fend for themselves and are often in urgent need of help."

The aid was delivered in the governorates of Anbar, Arbil, Babil, Baghdad, Basra, Diyala, Dohuk, Najaf, Salahaddine and Sulaymaniyah by 86 non-governmental organizations and local social-welfare institutions.

The ICRC has been working in Iraq since 1980. Its activities in the country include support for hospitals, upgrading water storage and distribution networks, and providing needy Iraqis – especially the displaced and the communities hosting them – with food and other essential items.