In case you don't know yet, a 7.8 earthquake hit Nepal last Saturday. Earthquakes hitting 7 in the Richter scale is considered a major earthquake and causes serious damage. As of today, more than 3,000 people have died and thousands more are injured. Some parts of China, Tibet, Bangladesh and India were also affected by the quake. Strong aftershocks are still being felt. Tent dwellings have sprung up in Kathmandu with the locals scared to go back to their homes. Many others and still missing or trapped.
Historical temples, shrines and buildings were destroyed. About 29 districts in Kathmandu were declared crisis zones. Hospitals are overcrowded and supplies are running out. Stores are expected to be closed for at least a week. Food and water are in short supply.
I could write more sentences to describe the devastation in Nepal. A quick search in on Google Images will show you how horrible and sad the current situation in Nepal is.
I'm no stranger to calamities since the Philippines face 20 typhoons in a year. I have families and friends who suffered during Haiyan and Ondoy. I've also seen the devastation of the March 11 earthquake in Japan. I've visited the ghost towns in Tohuko and talked with children orphaned from the disaster. So my heart goes out when things like this happen. I can't just pretend that everything is fine in the world when I know that in another part, thousands of people are hanging on for their lives.
I'm writing this post to ask help and prayers for the people in Nepal.
You can send your help through the following agencies and organizations. I listed agencies with high ranking of transparency and accountability.
1. CARE
" CARE staff on the ground are working to coordinate with other agencies and CARE has plans in place to assist up to 75,000 people with temporary shelter, ready to eat meals, water purification & latrine construction."
2. World Vision (I personally course donations through World Vision)
"World Vision has mobilized emergency response staff and supplies after the powerful earthquake toppled buildings and triggered avalanches, killing thousands. We are initiating a response to meet basic, urgent needs with temporary shelter, food, water, emergency health interventions and other vital aid."
"Mercy Corps is on the ground responding to the tragic disaster. Survivors have little refuge from continued aftershocks and need immediate food, water and shelter. Your gift will be used directly to deliver lifesaving relief to survivors and provide the resources families need to rebuild Nepal."
"For every 1 USD donated, AmeriCares has provided 20 USD in aid. Because we deliver donated medicines and medical suppliers to a trusted network of locally-based providers, the impact of your gift is multiplied many times over."
"Direct Relief commit 50,000 USD Cash to Emergency Response in Nepal."
"Your support will help us protect vulnerable children and provide desperately needed relief to families. Ten percent of your contribution will be used to prepare for the next emergency."
Any amount you can give is valuable. Nepal needs you today.
