Pacific tsunami
Samoa is in turmoil following a tragedy of unbelievable proportions.
UNICEF NZ has launched an urgent appeal to provide aid to the people of Samoa and
Read the latest news on our blog
The tsunami hit 195 kilometres south of
immediate response
UNICEF responded immediately, distributing life-saving emergency supplies including water containers, water purification tablets, hygiene kits, soap, oral rehydration salts, measles vaccines, vitamin A sachets and feminine hygiene packs. Over 7000 sets of communications materials promoting basic health practices in emergencies were also distributed.
This week, UNICEF will be immunising 11,000 children against measles - a killer disease that can spread rapidly in emergency situations. All 11,000 children will also be given vitamin A supplements to boost their immune systems.
RETURNING CHILDREN TO A SENSE OF NORMALCY
In any emergency it is children who suffer the most. UNICEF has been working hard to get children back to school as soon as possible so that their lives can return to some sort of normalcy. UNICEF has provided tents for classrooms as well as school supplies, school-in-a-box kits, recreation kits, uniforms, first aid kits and water tanks. Find out more
UNICEF is also providing teachers with psycho-social training so that they can help students to recover from tsunami-related stress. Another initiative involves providing education on emergency preparedness and disaster risk reduction to better prepare children and their families for future natural disasters.
A plea for help
UNICEF Pacific Representative, Dr. Isiye Ndombi, expressed shock over the scale of destruction of the tsunami and the resulting grief to the people of Samoa and Tonga. He is urging Kiwis to dig deep and donate to UNICEF's Samoa Appeal.
“Our hearts and minds are with the children and families of Samoa and Tonga right now. This is a tragedy of unbelievable proportions and UNICEF is ready to work closely and in co-ordination with our Samoan and Tongan partners and international agencies to provide immediate relief and support.”
Please note: Your donation will go to the Pacific Tsunami Children’s Appeal. If the funds raised exceed UNICEF’s funding requirements for this emergency‚ the money will go to UNICEF’s Children’s Emergency Fund.