Emergency supplies reaching 10,000 quake victims a day
POSTED: Aug. 23, 2007
By Sarah Pate
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A hanger in Pisco air force base has been turned into a storehouse for aid and relief supplies.
A woman smiles as she receives a blanket at an OBI distribution in San Jose.
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Chincha, Peru - After last week's devastating 8.0-magnitude earthquake struck Peru, aid workers continue to rush emergency supplies to victims living in devastated towns and relief camps.
Operation Blessing is partnering with Peru's Department of Civil Defense to help distribute tons of food and aid housed in a coliseum in Chincha.
So far, these efforts are reaching an estimated 10,000 people a day with critical supplies such as food, water and medicine.
Water trucks carrying 1,000 gallons each are making rounds every hour to communities with no water. Truckloads of building materials were purchased to help families construct temporary shelters and repair damaged homes.
At a relief camp in Pisco providing temporary housing for some 1,200 victims, OBI is working with the Peruvian Army to construct latrines. Currently, the camps have no running water or restrooms, increasing health risks and the potential spread of diseases and infections.
Many of the victims, however, are simply grateful to be alive.
"Even though I live in a tent, it's better than being dead. At least I am safe," said Delia who was waiting with her son in one of the relief camps.
OBI teams are still identifying communities in need and working with the Peruvian government, local churches and international relief groups to keep supplies moving.
"The work here in Peru continues to move full steam ahead," said OBI's Jordan Durso, who is on the ground directing relief efforts. "But there is still much to do."
How You Can Help
Be a part of OBI's ongoing disaster relief efforts by making an online donation to help survivors of the Peru earthquake. With your support, OBI can continue to bring emergency food, water and medical care to these earthquake victims and more who are caught in the midst of disaster.
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