Aid Groups Say They've Never Faced A Challenge Like The Novel Coronavirus

Humanitarian groups say they've never had to face a challenge like the novel coronavirus.

"We've never had to respond to a crisis that has simultaneously impacted every single office that we run in the world at the same time," says Elinor Raikes, head of program delivery at the International Rescue Committee, a humanitarian organization that operates in 40 countries.

It comes at a time when they're dealing with many crises already, from devastating drought in countries such as Angola and Pakistan to conflicts that have forced millions from their homes in Syria, Yemen and other regions. These groups provide aid in the form of food, housing, education and income to people living in some of the most desperate conditions on the planet: crammed inside refugee camps, under plastic sheeting in remote villages.

Even before the pandemic, will need humanitarian relief this year.