This campaign has now closed
On 29 September, a tsunami devastated islands in the region of Samoa, American Samoa and Tonga. The disaster claimed at least 129 lives and an estimated 30,000 people are affected. People’s livelihoods, homes and vehicles have been destroyed. The tsunami was triggered by an earthquake and Red Cross staff and volunteers were on the ground even before the wave struck, getting people away from coastal areas. Once the immediate emergency is over, the Red Cross will continue to be there to help people recover.
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In the aftermath of this tragedy, volunteers are distributing pre-positioned aid, such as tarpaulins, blankets, clothing and lanterns. The Red Cross has also set up camps to provide safe shelter, vital food and comfort for survivors. Water supplies have been cut off in some affected areas and volunteers are working with fire services to deliver safe water. In Samoa, 200 Red Cross volunteers worked with the national police to help evacuate people to higher ground inland and provided early warning messages to those living in coastal areas advising them to stay clear of beaches. The Red Cross has set up five camps, which are providing shelter for 650 people that have been made homeless, and is working with Fire Services to deliver tanks, bladders and bottles of safe water to people living in affected communities. We are also registering evacuees and helping to put them back in touch with concerned family and friends. In American Samoa, Red Cross volunteers are working provide desperately needed care, support and relief including food and water to those affected. Seven Red Cross shelters are also housing 900 people. A Disaster Management team has been deployed comprising specialists in relief, health, water and sanitation, shelter and psychosocial support. At this stage, we urgently need to raise an estimated £1.8million. Money raised by our appeal will support Red Cross National Societies responding on the ground. A major donation today will allow us to continue to provide immediate emergency aid. Please give what you can to help families who have lost everything. They are in desperate need of humanitarian assistance and hope for the future.