Assistance to Myanmar “a drop in the ocean”

27 May 2008

Although it is extremely difficult to quantify the amount that will be ultimately required for the relief of Cyclone Nargis survivors, CARE believes that for a disaster of this magnitude much more is needed.

The sheer scale of the disaster means that massive help is required from the international community for immediate relief needs in the devastated area and the return of survivors to their communities to rebuild their lives.

"In the first days after Cyclone Nargis the United Nations appealed for over $200 million for immediate relief requirements. The costs of dealing with this disaster are far from being met by the latest pledges" says CARE International UK’s Chief Executive, Geoffrey Dennis.

"We need to remember that providing the basic needs for survivors is only the first step for the recovery of those people affected. People’s lives’ and livelihoods will take years to be rebuilt."

CARE has assisted approximately 110,000 people so far. Following the agreement with the UN to allow open access to the Irrawaddy delta CARE is undertaking further assessments to expand assistance.

CARE staff on the ground are ensuring assistance is reaching those who need it most.

CARE is appealing to the international community to understand the magnitude of the disaster and respond accordingly, so give the people who need it most the opportunity to rebuild their lives.

"While the international donors have committed initial funds, it is a drop in the ocean when considering the needs of the 2 million people affected" says Dennis.

To donate to the Myanmar/Burma appeal click here >>

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For more information, updates on CARE International‘s operations in Myanmar or interviews contact:

Australia: Roslyn Boatman roslyn.boatman@careaustralia.org.au M:+61(0) 419 567 777 P +61:( 03) 9421 5572

UK: Amber Meikle meikle@careinternational.org +44 (0) 207 934 9348