| Development and Peace is committing an initial contribution of $ 50,000 to emergency relief in Burma (Myanmar). The country was hit by a devastating cyclone on May 3, which has left close to 100,000 dead and 1.5 million in need of urgent aid.
Development and Peace is currently working in collaboration with emergency relief organisation Caritas Internationalis and the Catholic Church in the country to distribute aid.
The relief effort includes the provision of food, medical and water purification equipments, as well as temporary shelter materials to 300 000 victims of the cyclone.
While this initiative, coordinated within Burma and in Thailand, will bring temporary relief to thousands of people, those who have survived the cyclone are currently facing the threats of sickness and starvation as aid agencies are unable to enter the country.
Development and Peace is extremely concerned by this dramatic situation compounded by the difficulties currently faced by the international community in bringing aid from outside the country.
"One week after the cyclone, international aid is still being blocked by the country’s military junta" says Gilio Brunelli, Director of International Programs at Development and Peace. "In the 20 years that I have worked in this field, I have never seen a government refuse international aid to its population in such a categorical and non-negotiable way. At Development and Peace, we are committed to do everything possible so that the funds donated directly help the victims."
Contributions can be made by telephone (1 888 664-3387), online at Emergency: Burma, or sent by cheque (marked "Emergency: Burma (Myanmar)") at the following address:
Development and Peace
1425, René-Lévesque Blvd. West, 3rd floor
Montreal (Quebec) H3G 1T7
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