RED CROSS SEEKS ASSISTANCE FOR FLOOD VICTIMS

Another article taken from Belize News ---

(Now I wish I was there to find out who among those we know have been affected. Plus, these times are opportunities to minister. ~ Ray)


June 02, 2008

As the National Emergency Management Organization assesses the damage brought by Tropical Storm Arthur across the country, the Belize Red Cross is asking the public’s assistance in helping the victims of the flooding. Director of the Belize Red Cross, Lily Bowman told us that they are in much need of dry clothing.

Lily Bowman, Director General, Belize Red Cross

“The Red Cross both in Stann Creek and in Orange Walk are preparing hot meals to be distributed to the people in the shelters. They are also getting basic food items like beans, rice flour and these will be given out in packages to be given to those who are displaced but are with families. There is a big request from down south as well as in Orange Walk for clothing. Of course with flood people do not have much things dry and so we are asking the public to please donate and we will be here for 24 hours at the Red Cross Headquarters and we are also asking that in the interest of time to sort them out and not just bring it here so that we can get it out to the people who need it. There is a big need for children’s clothing and pampers and yes can food is always very necessary. We are not giving these items to the people in the shelter because obviously they do not have anywhere to cook it, but we are doing the cooking and we are giving to them in the shelters.

” Bowman also said that besides the clothing and food items, the Belize Red Cross is calling on its volunteers to report in order to help with the relief efforts.

Lily Bowman, Director General, Belize Red Cross

“Yes we are always asking for volunteers and we are asking them to report to the centers. We are also getting ready to distribute blankets down in the South area; in Sittee River, Monkey River, Hope Creek. We are looking to deliver blankets as well and we are constantly doing assessments in the shelters as well as the areas and we are coordinating with NEMO as well.”
Bowman said that they are liaising with the UNICEF office in the country as well as with the Red Cross International Federation who have told them they are now on standby to send relief to Belize.