What happens when a crisis hits and there’s no time to wait?

Have you ever wondered how organisations like Oxfam respond quickly to save lives when disaster strikes? When fighting breaks out or a natural disaster happens, action needs to be fast and decisive. 

This is where specific funding, such as the Irish Aid funded Acute Crisis Stream (ACS) fund comes in. ACS is rapid response funding. It allows organisations like Oxfam Ireland and our local partner organisations to act quickly and decisively in some of the world’s most fragile and fast-changing humanitarian crises. 

ACS supports short-term emergency interventions (lasting three to six months) that target the most urgent needs. Whether it's delivering clean water during a conflict, food assistance during a drought, or essential hygiene services in overcrowded displacement camps, these funds can mean the difference between life and death.

Responding where it matters most 

In 2024, thanks to this vital funding, Oxfam Ireland, along with partner organisations, delivered life-saving assistance across three countries: 

This responsiveness is critical in ensuring that assistance reaches those furthest behind, when they need it most. 

Local partner organisations - the true frontline responders 

This work would not have been possible without our local partners. Their deep roots in their communities, understanding of the local context, and ability to navigate complex political and security landscapes, are what make this work truly effective. In some cases, like in Gaza, access for international organisations can be nearly impossible. It’s our local partners’ presence, trust and relationships that makes the delivery of critical services possible. 

Across all crisis zones, from conflict to climate disasters, our partners are not just implementers, they are frontline responders. They bring cultural insight, local credibility, and unmatched agility. These are all essential qualities in environments where every hour counts. 

Flexibility that saves lives 

ACS is funded by Irish Aid, as part of the Irish Civil Society Partnership (ICSP) grant. The flexibility of this funding allows us and our partners to adapt quickly and effectively in fragile and rapidly changing contexts.  

In emergency response, time is everything. And with the help of ACS funding and the tireless work of frontline partners, we’re able to reach people faster, with dignity, compassion and the tools to survive.