Urgent Update: Myanmar Crisis

Friday, May 8, 2008

The following is the latest information Power to Change has received from our humanitarian partner, GAiN. Daniel Win, CEO of GAiN Australia, who is originally from Myanmar and has many close connections there, is landing in Bangkok today to begin directing relief efforts. Here is what he says:

Over 100,000 have died. Over 1.2 million homeless. Yet things are set to get even worse as the problems escalate. The already contaminated water supply is being further threatened as bodies are being dumped into the rivers. Thousands of children have suddenly become orphans. People are confused, afraid and hurting. Communication is down. Transportation is difficult. Disease is starting to spread in epidemic proportions. The real crisis has just begun. It is critical that help is provided immediately before the disaster spreads in exponential proportions.

GAiN has responded immediately by setting up headquarters operations in Bangkok. Our local representatives have already travelled into Myanmar, obtained first hand field assessments and reliable reports. Directors from the GAiN nations are already to help; staff have been assigned and a strategy will be implemented within the next few days.

We are utilizing our extensive pre-existing network of contacts in Myanmar, and will be empowering local and reliable leaders to immediately provide emergency relief to those areas needed most. Our approach is to resource and empower local churches to help the suffering people in their own country and community. They need our help in order to help others.

Even before containers and shipments of relief from abroad can arrive, goods and resources will be purchased locally and distribution will take place immediately.

In general, 20 teams of 2 have already started targeting five disaster areas, and more financial assistance is required to further equip them with funds and emergency relief goods. Rebuilding of houses and temporary shelters has already begun at approximately $100 per household. Planning is underway to send volunteer medical teams in the weeks ahead.

The estimated cost to provide immediate emergency aid, which includes a two week supply of food, blankets and a set of clothing is $100 for a family of five.

As with any emergency relief project, it is crucial to have financial support as soon as possible in order to deliver the much needed material relief to families in Myanmar. If you would like to give a gift online please click on the link below, or call 1.888.826.3506 to make a gift by phone.