The Luxembourg Red Cross has launched an appeal for donations in support of the Ecuadorian population affected by the 7.8 magnitude earthquake which rocked the South American country on Saturday.
Donations are urgently needed to finance the acquisition and delivery of emergency 'shelter kits', the humanitarian organisation reported on Wednesday.
"The Ecuadorian Red Cross has requested the support of its sister societies to fund emergency aid to the wounded and people with no accommodation," explained Dr. Christian Huvelle, director of International Aid at the Luxembourg Red Cross.
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has already deployed teams on the ground to support the efforts of the Ecuadorian branch and launched an international appeal for emergency aid.
"The donations will support the Ecuadorian Red Cross in its search and rescue efforts, providing emergency first aid and necessary pre-hospital care," continued Walter Cotte, regional director of the International Federation for the Americas. "Whilst teams are assessing needs, they will also continue the distribution of necessities such as blankets, hygiene kits, water canteens and emergency shelter materials."
The earthquake's toll on the region has been significant, with preliminary estimates putting casualties at around 4,000 and about 1,400 buildings either destroyed or left in poor condition. More than 20,000 people have been left homeless, creating a burning need for emergency shelter kits and tarpaulins, as well as for the logistics costs for distribution to families to be covered.
Those wishing to financially support the Luxembourg Red Cross in its support of the victims of the Ecuador earthquake can do so by transfer to CCP LU52 1111 0000 1111 0000 or by credit card on www.croix-rouge.lu, with the communication "Ecuador".
Photo from Luxembourg Red Cross
