ShelterBox Update – April 2015
Posted by Ron Noseworthy
on Mar 31, 2015
Cyclone Pam causes devastation in Vanuatu
On March 14 Cyclone Pam hit the south Pacific archipelago of Vanuatu with devastating consequences. Vanuatu, one of the world’s poorest nations, is made up of a sprawling cluster of more than 80 islands, which are situated about 1,600 kilometers east of northern Australia.
The cyclone brought winds in excess of 270 km/hr. causing widespread damage. Initial reports claim 9 in 10 homes were severely damaged and many of the island’s 260,000 residents were left homeless. Many of the country's services, including schools, hospitals and power are in disarray and thousands were seeking shelter in temporary evacuation centers. There were also grave concerns for the more remote communities.
ShelterBox agreed to work with fellow aid organization CARE International to immediately distribute 1,000 ShelterBox shelter kits to people affected by the cyclone. The kits, which are designed to Red Cross specifications, can be used to repair and waterproof damaged buildings as well as to make emergency shelters.
The kits were dispatched from prepositioned stocks at Subang Airport, near Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia. Once on the ground the ShelterBox response team, made up of volunteers Peter Pearce (AUS) and Ross MacKenzie (NZ), were making preparations for ShelterBox aid distribution.
Having prepositioned aid means that we are better prepared for disasters and can reach the people who need it as soon as possible.
WE NEED YOUR HELP
Help provide shelter, warmth and dignity to families who have lost their homes and possessions following Cyclone Pam and disasters just like it. ShelterBox helps some of the world's most vulnerable people. Your gift will help us provide them with the tools they need to survive and begin rebuilding their lives.
ShelterBox is also currently responding to disasters in nine other countries. Donations will be designated to the area of greatest need.
Please consider a gift today.
For the latest updates and to make a donation please visit www.shelterboxcanada.org
Thank you for your support and for making our response possible.
For more on the ShelterBox response as Cyclone Pam causes devastation in Vanuatu visit