MYANMAR CARE distributing supplies to earthquake survivors

15 November 2012 -- CARE to distribute hundreds more family and shelter kits to Myanmar earthquake survivors.

Thousands of people affected by Sunday’s earthquake in Myanmar are being provided with shelter and family kits as CARE International’s emergency response team begins a second distribution to those most in need.

More than 5,000 people have been affected by the 6.8 magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar on Sunday morning. The Government reported that ten people died following the earthquake.

Brian Agland, CARE’s country director in Myanmar, said the earthquake severely affected Singu and Thabeikkyin townships in the Mandalay region and Shwe bo and Kyauk Myaung townships in Sagaing region. "More than 70 government buildings, 26 schools, 47 religious buildings and one bridge were badly damaged or destroyed as well as people’s homes across both states. ‘Temporary shelter, food and non-food items such as blankets, mosquito nets, cooking pots and hygiene kits are urgently needed."

"CARE has already distributed family kits and shelter kits with tarpaulin and tools in Kyauk Myanung and Thabeikkyin and over the next three days, we will distribute hundreds more throughout the Sagaing and Mandalay regions to people in desperate need of them," Mr Agland added.

CARE’s emergency response team is working closely with the relevant Myanmar government authorities and inter-agency teams to continue reviewing emergency needs.

Mr Agland said significant funds were needed to provide more survivors with shelter and food.
"In an emergency such as this, $10 can provide plastic sheeting to give shelter to a family or $250 can provide an emergency response kit with a shovel, blanket, first aid kit, tarpaulin and other life-saving equipment."

CARE has worked in Myanmar since 1995, with the aim of improving the living standards of rural communities through health education, including HIV/AIDS prevention as well, as nutritional support for children and pregnant mothers. CARE also provides micro-credit, and water and sanitation programs, as well as ensuring families have enough food to lead healthy and productive lives.

To arrange interviews with CARE staff, please contact CARE Australia media officer Helen Walsh on +61 (03) 9009 7121 or + 61 (04) 4990 8667.

About CARE: Founded in 1945, CARE is a leading humanitarian organization fighting global poverty. CARE has more than six decades of experience helping people prepare for disasters, providing lifesaving assistance when a crisis hits, and helping communities recover after the emergency has passed. CARE places special focus on women and children, who are often disproportionately affected by disasters. To learn more, visit www.care-international.org.