Red Cross Launches Appeal After Cyclone Pam

The Bermuda Red Cross is launching a cash appeal to support the British Red Cross’ launch to help those impacted by Severe Tropical Cyclone Pam, which made landfall in Vanuatu and Tuvalu on 13 March, leaving over 20 people dead.

“The priority for everyone is shelter, food, water, and first aid,” says Augustine Garae, head of disaster management for the Vanuatu Red Cross as he surveyed the scene in Port Vila.

An early survey suggests 90% of homes n the capital Port Vila have been damaged. Other countries hit by the cyclone include the Solomon Islands and Fiji.

There are a total of 26 evacuation centres in Port Vila where the Red Cross is assisting authorities. The military has been tasked with clearing and repairing the roads, and the authorities are working to restore communication with provinces across the country.

In Tuvalu, the Red Cross has distributed 100 blankets and 100 tarpaulins on Funafuti Island. In coming days, Red Cross staff and volunteers will be conducting house-to-house surveys in the affected areas.

Prior to the cyclone’s arrival, the Vanuatu Red Cross assisted authorities in carrying out evacuations across the country. The Red Cross also coordinated with the NDMO to mobilize volunteers through national radio broadcasts conveying important safety measures. The VRCS has 200 active volunteers who are being mobilized and another 200 volunteers on standby.

Donations can be made in the following ways:

• HSBC Bank of Bermuda – 010-187417-012
• Bank of N.T. Butterfield – 20-006-060-663859-200
• Call at 236-8253 with debit/credit card detail
• By mail to: Bermuda Red Cross, Cyclone Pam, Charleswood, 9 Berry Hill Road, Paget DV 03

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