The latest issue of the peer reviewed Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved (JHCPU) addresses the detrimental effects of Hurricane Katrina, on the management of health care in this country and on the continued suffering of many Americans as a result of the natural tragedy.
Meharry Medical College President Wayne J. Riley, M.D., MBA, wrote the forward to this edition revealing his own personal experiences in providing healthcare to evacuees and taking in several of his own family members, including his parents.
"Hurricane Katrina served as a great equalizer when anyone left in the surrounding area found them selves helpless - without anything - including access to healthcare," said Dr. Riley. "The devastation of this event served as a wake up call to the nation when we realized that we were not equipped to handle the impact of the disaster."
Limitations of the Healthcare System During a National Disaster
Studies in the JHCPU show that there are clear limitations in the healthcare system during times of crisis. For instance, those suffering from chronic diseases found it difficult to obtain proper medical treatment, follow-up care, and prescription medications.
One study published in the journal deals with the effects of managing chronic diseases in children. Children with conditions like asthma were at an increased risk of suffering adverse outcomes as a result of the hurricane. Some of the reasons include lack of access to medication and a deterioration of the quality of the environment due to mold and mildew from the flooding.
Another study on the hospital system states that patients had to be evacuated because of loss of power, water and sewer services. Federal assistance and rescue efforts were late coming and unsuccessful so many hospitals turned into places of death.
Journal for Health Care for the Poor and Underserved
JHCPU has as its goal the dissemination of information on the health of, and health care for, low-income and other medically underserved communities to health care practitioners, policy makers, and community leaders who are in a position to effect meaningful change. Issues dealt with include access to, quality of, and cost of health care. Journal for Health Care for the Poor and Underserved
Meharry Medical College
Meharry Medical College is the nation's largest private, independent historically black institution dedicated solely to educating minority and other health professionals. The College is particularly well known for its uniquely nurturing, highly effective educational programs; emerging preeminence in health disparities research; culturally sensitive, evidence-based health services; and significant contribution to the diversity of the nation's health professions workforce.
Meharry Medical College
1005 Dr. D. B. Todd Jr. Blvd.
Nashville, TN 37203
USA
mmc
суббота, 30 апреля 2011 г.
пятница, 29 апреля 2011 г.
After January's Quake, Humanitarian Action In Haiti Averts Worse Crisis For Children, But Much Remains To Be Done
Three months after the devastating earthquake that rocked Haiti and left its mark on over a million children, UNICEF today reports that the unprecedented humanitarian response has averted a worse crisis for children - but warns that there is much still to be done, not least as Haiti approaches the annual rainy season.
In its summary of activities after the 12 January quake -Children of Haiti: Three Months After the Earthquake - UNICEF notes that despite massive destruction and disruption to key services:
1. there has been no significant disease outbreak or increase in malnutrition rates
2. over a million affected people are receiving clean drinking water
3. over 200,000 women and children are benefiting from selective feeding programmes
4. mass vaccination campaigns have reached over 100,000 children to date
5. residential child care centres hosting more than 25,000 children have been assessed and provided with urgent food and medicines to ensure wellbeing of children and;
6. schools have begun to open in temporary accommodation, with the provision of thousands of tents and hundreds of sets of learning and teaching materials.
However, the report also highlights key challenges in areas such as provision of sanitation, risks of violence against women and girls living in displacement camps, and the broader issue of much-reduced government and civil society capacity. Many government ministries and departments lost buildings, personnel and vital data.
UNICEF identifies urgent provision of improved shelter for displaced families, increased provision of basic services and strengthened protection of women and children as urgent priorities. UNICEF is working already with other organizations to support the safe relocation of families living in the most vulnerable camps to new locations ahead of the rainy season.
The report also calls for support for 'transformative agenda' for Haiti's children, which places children at the centre of recovery and reconstruction efforts. In particular, UNICEF singles out tackling the trend of chronic malnutrition, creating a protective environment for children, and ensuring education for every child as critical priorities for the future development of the country.
These priorities, says the report, stand out as both urgent in the short term and essential to the progressive and full realization of rights by children.
Source
UNICEF
In its summary of activities after the 12 January quake -Children of Haiti: Three Months After the Earthquake - UNICEF notes that despite massive destruction and disruption to key services:
1. there has been no significant disease outbreak or increase in malnutrition rates
2. over a million affected people are receiving clean drinking water
3. over 200,000 women and children are benefiting from selective feeding programmes
4. mass vaccination campaigns have reached over 100,000 children to date
5. residential child care centres hosting more than 25,000 children have been assessed and provided with urgent food and medicines to ensure wellbeing of children and;
6. schools have begun to open in temporary accommodation, with the provision of thousands of tents and hundreds of sets of learning and teaching materials.
However, the report also highlights key challenges in areas such as provision of sanitation, risks of violence against women and girls living in displacement camps, and the broader issue of much-reduced government and civil society capacity. Many government ministries and departments lost buildings, personnel and vital data.
UNICEF identifies urgent provision of improved shelter for displaced families, increased provision of basic services and strengthened protection of women and children as urgent priorities. UNICEF is working already with other organizations to support the safe relocation of families living in the most vulnerable camps to new locations ahead of the rainy season.
The report also calls for support for 'transformative agenda' for Haiti's children, which places children at the centre of recovery and reconstruction efforts. In particular, UNICEF singles out tackling the trend of chronic malnutrition, creating a protective environment for children, and ensuring education for every child as critical priorities for the future development of the country.
These priorities, says the report, stand out as both urgent in the short term and essential to the progressive and full realization of rights by children.
Source
UNICEF
четверг, 28 апреля 2011 г.
Health Information Technology "Control Tower" Could Improve Earthquake Response
A new study published by researchers at Weill Cornell Medical College and the University of California, Davis, foresees improvements in patient outcomes after a major earthquake through more effective use of information technology. A control tower-style telemedicine hub to manage electronic traffic between first responders and remote medical experts could boost the likelihood that critically injured victims will get timely care and survive, according to the team's computer simulation model.
"Since its introduction in the 1970s, telemedicine -- the electronic linkage of health care providers and recipients -- has held promise for improved disaster response outcomes. As information technology becomes pervasive, we want to ensure that systems are in place to fully realize its potential for helping patients -- particularly for emergency response," says study senior author Dr. Nathaniel Hupert, associate professor of public health and medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College and co-director of the Cornell Institute for Disease and Disaster Preparedness.
The team's results, published in the Journal of Medical Systems, show that introducing telemedicine linkages between remote specialists and immediate responders in the aftermath of a widespread disaster like an earthquake could decrease both patient waiting times and hospitalization rates at nearby hospitals, while increasing the likelihood that patients with life-threatening injuries receive appropriate care -- as compared with standard emergency department-based triage and treatment.
These findings demonstrate the power of interdisciplinary approaches to complex issues at the border between medicine, public health and logistics, says study lead author Dr. Wei Xiong, assistant professor of public health at Weill Cornell Medical College. "We applied engineering methods more commonly used to analyze queuing systems like telephone call centers and road traffic planning to look at how to effectively manage this new type of emergency medical care."
"We know that when disasters strike, local hospitals, clinics and medical personnel can be completely overwhelmed," says co-author Dr. Aaron Bair, associate professor of emergency medicine and interim director of the UC Davis Center for Health and Technology. "We focused on testing how telemedicine can expedite response, enabling help to get to where it is needed in a relatively short timeframe. Our results show telemedicine improves emergency care at the disaster site -- providing care for more patients sooner, reducing waiting times for treatment and permitting more efficient use of scarce medical resources."
According to the study's principal investigator, Dr. Christian Sandrock, an assistant professor of pulmonary and critical care medicine at UC Davis School of Medicine and a county public health officer in Northern California, high-speed telecommunications links would offer critical benefits for emergency teams when they are responding to a disaster. "We think telemedicine can reduce mortality rates following a disaster by bolstering medical triage capabilities of emergency care providers." He adds, "By helping disaster victims avoid the time it takes to be transported to a designated area for treatment, telemedicine can enable medical teams to actually spend more time caring for patients, so you save lives."
Telemedicine technology is already being tested in the emergency medicine setting. One system of "medical kiosks" in Australia makes use of webcam-equipped laptops, satellite terminals and telemedicine equipment -- including ECG monitors and blood pressure equipment -- to allow physicians to remotely assess patients and give medical advice. The current study focuses on how to manage the multiple data streams resulting from use of such technology in the setting of a mass-casualty disaster like an earthquake.
vAdditional co-authors include Sophia Wang of Cayuga Partners, Ithaca, N.Y.; and Javeed Siddiqui of UC Davis.
The study is available here.
Source:
Cornell Institute for Disease and Disaster Preparedness
Weill Cornell Medical College
UC Davis Health System
"Since its introduction in the 1970s, telemedicine -- the electronic linkage of health care providers and recipients -- has held promise for improved disaster response outcomes. As information technology becomes pervasive, we want to ensure that systems are in place to fully realize its potential for helping patients -- particularly for emergency response," says study senior author Dr. Nathaniel Hupert, associate professor of public health and medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College and co-director of the Cornell Institute for Disease and Disaster Preparedness.
The team's results, published in the Journal of Medical Systems, show that introducing telemedicine linkages between remote specialists and immediate responders in the aftermath of a widespread disaster like an earthquake could decrease both patient waiting times and hospitalization rates at nearby hospitals, while increasing the likelihood that patients with life-threatening injuries receive appropriate care -- as compared with standard emergency department-based triage and treatment.
These findings demonstrate the power of interdisciplinary approaches to complex issues at the border between medicine, public health and logistics, says study lead author Dr. Wei Xiong, assistant professor of public health at Weill Cornell Medical College. "We applied engineering methods more commonly used to analyze queuing systems like telephone call centers and road traffic planning to look at how to effectively manage this new type of emergency medical care."
"We know that when disasters strike, local hospitals, clinics and medical personnel can be completely overwhelmed," says co-author Dr. Aaron Bair, associate professor of emergency medicine and interim director of the UC Davis Center for Health and Technology. "We focused on testing how telemedicine can expedite response, enabling help to get to where it is needed in a relatively short timeframe. Our results show telemedicine improves emergency care at the disaster site -- providing care for more patients sooner, reducing waiting times for treatment and permitting more efficient use of scarce medical resources."
According to the study's principal investigator, Dr. Christian Sandrock, an assistant professor of pulmonary and critical care medicine at UC Davis School of Medicine and a county public health officer in Northern California, high-speed telecommunications links would offer critical benefits for emergency teams when they are responding to a disaster. "We think telemedicine can reduce mortality rates following a disaster by bolstering medical triage capabilities of emergency care providers." He adds, "By helping disaster victims avoid the time it takes to be transported to a designated area for treatment, telemedicine can enable medical teams to actually spend more time caring for patients, so you save lives."
Telemedicine technology is already being tested in the emergency medicine setting. One system of "medical kiosks" in Australia makes use of webcam-equipped laptops, satellite terminals and telemedicine equipment -- including ECG monitors and blood pressure equipment -- to allow physicians to remotely assess patients and give medical advice. The current study focuses on how to manage the multiple data streams resulting from use of such technology in the setting of a mass-casualty disaster like an earthquake.
vAdditional co-authors include Sophia Wang of Cayuga Partners, Ithaca, N.Y.; and Javeed Siddiqui of UC Davis.
The study is available here.
Source:
Cornell Institute for Disease and Disaster Preparedness
Weill Cornell Medical College
UC Davis Health System
среда, 27 апреля 2011 г.
Sanford-Brown College Students Help In Missouri Flood Relief
Eighteen Sanford-Brown students assisted Missouri community residents who were impacted by raging Mississippi waters, last week. In addition to sand bagging, the nursing students ensured that Clarksville families were educated on proper sanitation, the importance of hand washing, dehydration, heat stroke and insect bites.
Julia Leeman, president of Sanford-Brown College St. Peters, said, "As a neighboring community, giving back is important to us."
After walking through the affected area, the students noted that there was not an appropriate number of public washrooms or sufficient drinking water; and partnered with the Missouri National Guard to get portable restrooms and fresh water onsite.
Clarksville, a historic artists' town of 500 between St. Louis and Hannibal, Missouri, was swamped on Wednesday. The Sanford-Brown team spoke to the elderly and disabled to determine their needs; and transported water to fill portable stations.
About Sanford-Brown College
Sanford-Brown College is an in-demand career training and degree-granting institution with a 142-year history in the St. Louis area. Sanford-Brown College - St. Peters is a member of the Career Education Corporation (NASDAQ:CECO) network of universities, colleges and schools. With campuses in Collinsville, Ill., Fenton, Mo., Hazelwood, Mo., St. Peters, Mo., Milwaukee, Wis. and Cleveland, Ohio, Sanford-Brown College offers career-oriented programs in the fields of health care, business, criminal justice, and more. Sanford-Brown College - St. Peters is a member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, the Missouri League for Nursing and the Missouri Healthcare Association, and is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools.
Sanford-Brown College
Julia Leeman, president of Sanford-Brown College St. Peters, said, "As a neighboring community, giving back is important to us."
After walking through the affected area, the students noted that there was not an appropriate number of public washrooms or sufficient drinking water; and partnered with the Missouri National Guard to get portable restrooms and fresh water onsite.
Clarksville, a historic artists' town of 500 between St. Louis and Hannibal, Missouri, was swamped on Wednesday. The Sanford-Brown team spoke to the elderly and disabled to determine their needs; and transported water to fill portable stations.
About Sanford-Brown College
Sanford-Brown College is an in-demand career training and degree-granting institution with a 142-year history in the St. Louis area. Sanford-Brown College - St. Peters is a member of the Career Education Corporation (NASDAQ:CECO) network of universities, colleges and schools. With campuses in Collinsville, Ill., Fenton, Mo., Hazelwood, Mo., St. Peters, Mo., Milwaukee, Wis. and Cleveland, Ohio, Sanford-Brown College offers career-oriented programs in the fields of health care, business, criminal justice, and more. Sanford-Brown College - St. Peters is a member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, the Missouri League for Nursing and the Missouri Healthcare Association, and is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools.
Sanford-Brown College
вторник, 26 апреля 2011 г.
New Study Finds That Some 55,000 Children Who Were Displaced Following Hurricane Katrina Face Long Term Health, Mental And Educational Crises
Two and a half years after
Hurricanes Katrina and Rita and the flooding of New Orleans displaced tens
of thousands of families in the Gulf Coast region, between 46,000 and
64,000 children remain at-risk for long-term health and social problems,
according to a new study issued today by Columbia University's Mailman
School of Public Health and The Children's Health Fund. Although many of
the children who were displaced have returned to their home communities or
home states, according to census and school enrollment data, they still
face inadequate housing, unsafe communities, and inadequate access to
comprehensive medical and mental health care.
The study found this displaced group at risk for a host of serious
medical and mental health as well as educational problems, complicated by
highly limited support services. More than half of the 55,000 displaced
children in Louisiana (55.4%) and nearly half in Mississippi (47.1%) have
been estimated to exhibit one of three "risk factors" that can have a long
term or permanent impacts on their lives: a substantial drop in academic
achievement, according to their parents; lost access to health care (either
medical home or insurance coverage); or clinically-diagnosed depression,
anxiety or behavior disorder.
The study, "The Legacy of Katrina's Children: Estimating the Numbers of
Hurricane-Related At-Risk Children in the Gulf Coast States of Louisiana &
Mississippi," is a collaboration between Columbia University Mailman School
of Public Health and The Children's Health Fund. Overseen by Irwin
Redlener, MD, the study was led by David Abramson, PhD, MPH, director of
research at the Mailman School's National Center for Disaster Preparedness
(NCDP). The research focuses on children in Louisiana and Mississippi who
had been displaced by the hurricane, and who may be among the most needy.
Irwin Redlener, MD, director of NCDP and president of the Children's
Health Fund said, "This may be the most severe acute crisis affecting
American children since the 1950s". He continued, "It's been two and a half
years since the Hurricanes devastated the Gulf Coast region, and the level
of uncertainty among tens of thousands of families who still do not have
adequate permanent housing for families has manifested itself in the
children, with a distressing rise of mental health and medical issues, as
well as a drop in academic performance that can have painful and permanent
consequences. In fact, these families would be officially recognized as
'Internally Displaced Persons' by international humanitarian
organizations."
Dr. Abramson added, "Since the disaster, our research team has been
following a representative group of families and households who had been
displaced by Katrina. Some families are having success rebuilding their
homes and their lives. But many families are finding that as they return to
communities, old problems persist and a number of new problems emerge.
There are still children living in temporary or transient housing, such as
FEMA trailer parks, and their parents are struggling to find new housing
options. Our intention with this study was to estimate the magnitude of the
problem - how many children are at-risk, whether they are living in trailer
parks or are back in the community."
-- The total number of individuals in both Louisiana and Mississippi who
had been displaced by Hurricane Katrina is estimated at 447,827,
including an estimated 163,105 children.
-- Based on census data, an estimated range of 82,000 to 95,000 children
have returned to their home community or home state. There are
approximately 11,000 children still residing in trailer park settings.
-- Between 46,582 and 64,934 children are estimated to have been
displaced by Hurricane Katrina and are presently experiencing a risk
factor that puts them at risk for long-term poor outcomes.
The Study concluded that the estimates found in the report represent
the increased risks suffered by children in these two states (Louisiana and
Mississippi) because of the hurricane and their subsequent displacement.
The Children's Health Fund (CHF) (childrenshealthfund) Founded
in 1987 by pediatrician/child advocate Irwin Redlener, MD, and
singer/songwriter Paul Simon, CHF is a not-for-profit organization that
works nationally to develop health care programs for the most medically
underserved population -- homeless and disadvantaged children. CHF's 21
pediatric programs have provided essential primary care services in more
than one million patient visits. Soon after Hurricane Katrina devastated
thousands of miles of the Gulf Coast, CHF responded to the urgent public
health needs by establishing Operation Assist, a collaboration with the
National Center for Disaster Preparedness (NCDP) at the Mailman School of
Public Health at Columbia University.
The only accredited school of public health in New York City, and among
the first in the nation, Columbia University's Mailman School of Public
Health (mailman.hs.columbia) provides instruction and research
opportunities to more than 850 graduate students in pursuit of masters and
doctoral degrees. Its students and nearly 250 multi-disciplinary faculty
engage in research and service in the city, nation, and around the world,
concentrating on biostatistics, environmental health sciences,
epidemiology, health policy and management, population and family health,
and sociomedical sciences.
The Children's Health Fund
childrenshealthfund
Hurricanes Katrina and Rita and the flooding of New Orleans displaced tens
of thousands of families in the Gulf Coast region, between 46,000 and
64,000 children remain at-risk for long-term health and social problems,
according to a new study issued today by Columbia University's Mailman
School of Public Health and The Children's Health Fund. Although many of
the children who were displaced have returned to their home communities or
home states, according to census and school enrollment data, they still
face inadequate housing, unsafe communities, and inadequate access to
comprehensive medical and mental health care.
The study found this displaced group at risk for a host of serious
medical and mental health as well as educational problems, complicated by
highly limited support services. More than half of the 55,000 displaced
children in Louisiana (55.4%) and nearly half in Mississippi (47.1%) have
been estimated to exhibit one of three "risk factors" that can have a long
term or permanent impacts on their lives: a substantial drop in academic
achievement, according to their parents; lost access to health care (either
medical home or insurance coverage); or clinically-diagnosed depression,
anxiety or behavior disorder.
The study, "The Legacy of Katrina's Children: Estimating the Numbers of
Hurricane-Related At-Risk Children in the Gulf Coast States of Louisiana &
Mississippi," is a collaboration between Columbia University Mailman School
of Public Health and The Children's Health Fund. Overseen by Irwin
Redlener, MD, the study was led by David Abramson, PhD, MPH, director of
research at the Mailman School's National Center for Disaster Preparedness
(NCDP). The research focuses on children in Louisiana and Mississippi who
had been displaced by the hurricane, and who may be among the most needy.
Irwin Redlener, MD, director of NCDP and president of the Children's
Health Fund said, "This may be the most severe acute crisis affecting
American children since the 1950s". He continued, "It's been two and a half
years since the Hurricanes devastated the Gulf Coast region, and the level
of uncertainty among tens of thousands of families who still do not have
adequate permanent housing for families has manifested itself in the
children, with a distressing rise of mental health and medical issues, as
well as a drop in academic performance that can have painful and permanent
consequences. In fact, these families would be officially recognized as
'Internally Displaced Persons' by international humanitarian
organizations."
Dr. Abramson added, "Since the disaster, our research team has been
following a representative group of families and households who had been
displaced by Katrina. Some families are having success rebuilding their
homes and their lives. But many families are finding that as they return to
communities, old problems persist and a number of new problems emerge.
There are still children living in temporary or transient housing, such as
FEMA trailer parks, and their parents are struggling to find new housing
options. Our intention with this study was to estimate the magnitude of the
problem - how many children are at-risk, whether they are living in trailer
parks or are back in the community."
-- The total number of individuals in both Louisiana and Mississippi who
had been displaced by Hurricane Katrina is estimated at 447,827,
including an estimated 163,105 children.
-- Based on census data, an estimated range of 82,000 to 95,000 children
have returned to their home community or home state. There are
approximately 11,000 children still residing in trailer park settings.
-- Between 46,582 and 64,934 children are estimated to have been
displaced by Hurricane Katrina and are presently experiencing a risk
factor that puts them at risk for long-term poor outcomes.
The Study concluded that the estimates found in the report represent
the increased risks suffered by children in these two states (Louisiana and
Mississippi) because of the hurricane and their subsequent displacement.
The Children's Health Fund (CHF) (childrenshealthfund) Founded
in 1987 by pediatrician/child advocate Irwin Redlener, MD, and
singer/songwriter Paul Simon, CHF is a not-for-profit organization that
works nationally to develop health care programs for the most medically
underserved population -- homeless and disadvantaged children. CHF's 21
pediatric programs have provided essential primary care services in more
than one million patient visits. Soon after Hurricane Katrina devastated
thousands of miles of the Gulf Coast, CHF responded to the urgent public
health needs by establishing Operation Assist, a collaboration with the
National Center for Disaster Preparedness (NCDP) at the Mailman School of
Public Health at Columbia University.
The only accredited school of public health in New York City, and among
the first in the nation, Columbia University's Mailman School of Public
Health (mailman.hs.columbia) provides instruction and research
opportunities to more than 850 graduate students in pursuit of masters and
doctoral degrees. Its students and nearly 250 multi-disciplinary faculty
engage in research and service in the city, nation, and around the world,
concentrating on biostatistics, environmental health sciences,
epidemiology, health policy and management, population and family health,
and sociomedical sciences.
The Children's Health Fund
childrenshealthfund
понедельник, 25 апреля 2011 г.
Princess Hata & WFP Chief Call For More To Be Done For Suffering Lebanese
DAMASCUS, Her Royal Highness Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, WFP Goodwill Ambassador, today joined James Morris, WFP Executive Director, on a one-day visit to Lebanese refugees in Syria. Together they urged increased
assistance in alleviating the suffering on both sides of the border.
"Politicians must stand up together to put an end to this senseless
conflict by making humanity the priority," said Princess Haya. "This would
be by allowing food to reach the source of the problem without
interference, and by allowing us to distribute the food to make our
children's lives bearable and to give them some of that hope they
desperately need right now," said Princess Haya.
"With every day that the fighting continues, we are going to see more
misery and more displaced people fleeing across the border. We have to do
everything we can to ease their suffering and to ensure that hunger does
not make their plight even worse," said Morris, who arrived late last night
on his first official visit to Syria.
Morris said that the overnight bombing of the highway north from Beirut to
the Syrian border had cut the road in at least three places, effectively
severing a vital humanitarian lifeline between Lebanon and the outside
world. As a result, today WFP has postponed its planned supply convoy from
the humanitarian hub in Arida, Syria.
"The destruction of this vital supply route has serious repercussions for
the overall relief effort in Lebanon," Morris said.
WFP-managed convoys have been making regular deliveries of humanitarian
staff and cargo over the border from Arida, which was one of the few safe
crossing points still open to traffic between the two countries. Over the
past few days, thousands of refugees have been flooding over the border to
escape the fighting.
Morris expressed concern that so far, WFP had only been able to reach less
than half the people in southern Lebanon requiring food assistance. Today,
only one of the two planned convoys managed to proceed (to Jezzine) due to
overnight bombardment in the suburbs of South Beirut. The convoy planned
for Tyre and Rashidiyeh did not go ahead as the truck drivers were unable
to leave their apartments.
The hampering of road deliveries makes the start of WFP flights today
directly into Beirut even more important. This morning, 10 tons of WFP
high energy biscuits and 2 tons of other essential supplies departed from
the UN Humanitarian Depot in Brindisi, Italy, aboard a C-130 Hercules
aircraft, made possible by the generous offer from the Government of
Portugal. The aircraft is expected to conduct four rotations between Friday
and Monday, delivering a total of 42 metric tons of WFP high-energy
biscuits, four tons of medical supplies for the World Health Organisation
as well as other urgently-needed relief supplies.
"We are grateful to the Syrian and Portuguese governments in lending their
support to our humanitarian operation. It is challenging work demanding our
combined efforts," said Morris.
Since starting its convoys last week (26 July), WFP has delivered a total
of 280 metric tons of food into the south, enough for 80,000 people for one
week. WFP convoys carrying food and other relief items on behalf of WHO,
UNDP, UNICEF, UNHCR, UNRWA and several NGOs, have been severely hampered by security and logistical problems, including damaged roads, forcing long
detours over difficult terrain, as well as mechanical breakdowns.
In Syria, WFP started on Monday (31 July) to distribute food aid to nearly
7,000 Lebanese people who have taken refuge in the capital, Damascus, over
recent weeks. The agency will distribute three tons of bread each day to
the beneficiaries who are living in schools or abandoned public buildings.
Current indications suggest the number of refugees needing assistance in
Damascus could rise to 20,000 people in the coming days. Distributions of
food aid are due to begin shortly in central and northern Syria.
WFP operations within the UN flash appeal have been budgeted at a total
US$48 million, including logistical support and an emergency operation to
provide food aid, valued at US$8.9 million, to respond to the immediate
food needs of displaced Lebanese. WFP is prioritising assistance to 95,000
displaced people seeking shelter in schools and public institutions in
Beirut, 165,000 people in the heaviest-hit areas in southern Lebanon and
50,000 of the approximately 140,000 people in Syria who have fled the
conflict.
With the situation deteriorating by the day, WFP plans to expand its
assistance in both Syria and Lebanon.
"I implore the international community to put a stop to the violence and
cease the rhetoric. Dialogue and action is what is required now to make
this region a better place for the adults of tomorrow, who have so much to
give and to offer the world in return," stressed Princess Haya. "If we turn
our backs on them, we will see our world plummeting into a vicious cycle of
violence, from which there is no foreseeable positive future," Princess
Haya said.
"So many people have lost their lives in this conflict. Peace must be
restored so that we can help these survivors return home to rebuild their
lives," said Morris.
Of the US$8.9 million required for its emergency operation to provide food
aid to 300,000 displaced people in Lebanon and Syria, WFP has received
donations from Saudi Arabia (US$2 million), Australia (US$1 million),
Denmark (US$168,351) and Luxembourg (US$314,000). For its special
operations, including logistics serving other humanitarian partners, WFP
has received donations from the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (US$3
million), the United States (US$3 million), Norway (US$1.1 million),
Denmark (US$673,400), Germany (US$510,000) and Australia (US$480,000).
WFP is appealing for urgent funds for its Lebanon
operation and would appreciate specific mention of our Donate Online page
at wfp/donate
WFP is the world's largest humanitarian agency: each year, we give food to
an average of 90 million poor people to meet their nutritional needs,
including 58 million hungry children, in at least 80 of the world's poorest
countries. WFP -- We Feed People. Visit our website: wfp
assistance in alleviating the suffering on both sides of the border.
"Politicians must stand up together to put an end to this senseless
conflict by making humanity the priority," said Princess Haya. "This would
be by allowing food to reach the source of the problem without
interference, and by allowing us to distribute the food to make our
children's lives bearable and to give them some of that hope they
desperately need right now," said Princess Haya.
"With every day that the fighting continues, we are going to see more
misery and more displaced people fleeing across the border. We have to do
everything we can to ease their suffering and to ensure that hunger does
not make their plight even worse," said Morris, who arrived late last night
on his first official visit to Syria.
Morris said that the overnight bombing of the highway north from Beirut to
the Syrian border had cut the road in at least three places, effectively
severing a vital humanitarian lifeline between Lebanon and the outside
world. As a result, today WFP has postponed its planned supply convoy from
the humanitarian hub in Arida, Syria.
"The destruction of this vital supply route has serious repercussions for
the overall relief effort in Lebanon," Morris said.
WFP-managed convoys have been making regular deliveries of humanitarian
staff and cargo over the border from Arida, which was one of the few safe
crossing points still open to traffic between the two countries. Over the
past few days, thousands of refugees have been flooding over the border to
escape the fighting.
Morris expressed concern that so far, WFP had only been able to reach less
than half the people in southern Lebanon requiring food assistance. Today,
only one of the two planned convoys managed to proceed (to Jezzine) due to
overnight bombardment in the suburbs of South Beirut. The convoy planned
for Tyre and Rashidiyeh did not go ahead as the truck drivers were unable
to leave their apartments.
The hampering of road deliveries makes the start of WFP flights today
directly into Beirut even more important. This morning, 10 tons of WFP
high energy biscuits and 2 tons of other essential supplies departed from
the UN Humanitarian Depot in Brindisi, Italy, aboard a C-130 Hercules
aircraft, made possible by the generous offer from the Government of
Portugal. The aircraft is expected to conduct four rotations between Friday
and Monday, delivering a total of 42 metric tons of WFP high-energy
biscuits, four tons of medical supplies for the World Health Organisation
as well as other urgently-needed relief supplies.
"We are grateful to the Syrian and Portuguese governments in lending their
support to our humanitarian operation. It is challenging work demanding our
combined efforts," said Morris.
Since starting its convoys last week (26 July), WFP has delivered a total
of 280 metric tons of food into the south, enough for 80,000 people for one
week. WFP convoys carrying food and other relief items on behalf of WHO,
UNDP, UNICEF, UNHCR, UNRWA and several NGOs, have been severely hampered by security and logistical problems, including damaged roads, forcing long
detours over difficult terrain, as well as mechanical breakdowns.
In Syria, WFP started on Monday (31 July) to distribute food aid to nearly
7,000 Lebanese people who have taken refuge in the capital, Damascus, over
recent weeks. The agency will distribute three tons of bread each day to
the beneficiaries who are living in schools or abandoned public buildings.
Current indications suggest the number of refugees needing assistance in
Damascus could rise to 20,000 people in the coming days. Distributions of
food aid are due to begin shortly in central and northern Syria.
WFP operations within the UN flash appeal have been budgeted at a total
US$48 million, including logistical support and an emergency operation to
provide food aid, valued at US$8.9 million, to respond to the immediate
food needs of displaced Lebanese. WFP is prioritising assistance to 95,000
displaced people seeking shelter in schools and public institutions in
Beirut, 165,000 people in the heaviest-hit areas in southern Lebanon and
50,000 of the approximately 140,000 people in Syria who have fled the
conflict.
With the situation deteriorating by the day, WFP plans to expand its
assistance in both Syria and Lebanon.
"I implore the international community to put a stop to the violence and
cease the rhetoric. Dialogue and action is what is required now to make
this region a better place for the adults of tomorrow, who have so much to
give and to offer the world in return," stressed Princess Haya. "If we turn
our backs on them, we will see our world plummeting into a vicious cycle of
violence, from which there is no foreseeable positive future," Princess
Haya said.
"So many people have lost their lives in this conflict. Peace must be
restored so that we can help these survivors return home to rebuild their
lives," said Morris.
Of the US$8.9 million required for its emergency operation to provide food
aid to 300,000 displaced people in Lebanon and Syria, WFP has received
donations from Saudi Arabia (US$2 million), Australia (US$1 million),
Denmark (US$168,351) and Luxembourg (US$314,000). For its special
operations, including logistics serving other humanitarian partners, WFP
has received donations from the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (US$3
million), the United States (US$3 million), Norway (US$1.1 million),
Denmark (US$673,400), Germany (US$510,000) and Australia (US$480,000).
WFP is appealing for urgent funds for its Lebanon
operation and would appreciate specific mention of our Donate Online page
at wfp/donate
WFP is the world's largest humanitarian agency: each year, we give food to
an average of 90 million poor people to meet their nutritional needs,
including 58 million hungry children, in at least 80 of the world's poorest
countries. WFP -- We Feed People. Visit our website: wfp
воскресенье, 24 апреля 2011 г.
American Red Cross Urges Planning In Wake Of Storms
As the nation continues
to grapple with severe weather conditions throughout the High Plains and
into the south, the American Red Cross is asking the public to immediately
prepare for the potential increase in storm activity.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a
warning for possibly another line of severe thunderstorms, which could
unexpectedly develop into tornado activity. In the wake of this latest
warning the Red Cross is issuing the following guidelines for storm
preparation:
-- Make a plan for safe shelter -- It is important to know the safest
locations to take cover from a storm at home, work and school. Locate a
basement, center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest floor where
everyone should gather. The area should be windowless and free of
objects that can become projectiles during high winds. If you are in a
high-rise building there may not be time to reach a lower floor before
the storm hits. Head to the center of the building.
-- Build an Emergency Preparedness Kit -- Kits should contain a first aid
kit and essential medications; three-day supply of canned or non-
perishable food and manual can opener; at least three gallons of water
per person; flashlights and a battery-powered radio with extra
batteries; and other emergency items for the whole family, including
pets. Prepare a personal size kit to keep at work and in the car. For
more information on what to include in an Emergency Preparedness Kit,
log on to the Get Prepared section of the Red Cross website at
redcross.
-- Stay Informed of Warnings -- Listen to your local radio and TV stations
for updated storm information. Check with your local emergency
management office to see if email and cell phone weather alerts are
available in your area. A tornado WATCH means there is the possibility
of tornado activity in your area. When a tornado WARNING is issued,
immediately head to your planned safe shelter. If you are outside,
hurry to a nearby sturdy building or lie flat in a ditch or low-lying
area. If you are in a car or mobile home, get out immediately and head
for safety.
The best way to stay protected against dangerous weather is to prepare
and plan well before a storm hits. The Red Cross has information on
preparing for all types of emergencies and disasters, including the Be Red
Cross Ready online educational presentation at
redcross/beredcrossready and the Safe and Well Web site,
accessible from redcross. Safe and Well allows disaster
victims to post standard messages letting family and friends know of their
safety and how to contact them. For more information contact your local Red
Cross chapter.
The American Red Cross helps people prevent, prepare for and respond to
emergencies. Last year, almost a million volunteers and 35,000 employees
helped victims of almost 75,000 disasters; taught lifesaving skills to
millions; and helped U.S. service members separated from their families
stay connected. Almost 4 million people gave blood through the Red Cross,
the largest supplier of blood and blood products in the United States. The
American Red Cross is part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent
Movement. An average of 91 cents of every dollar the Red Cross spends is
invested in humanitarian services and programs. The Red Cross is not a
government agency; it relies on donations of time, money, and blood to do
its work.
to grapple with severe weather conditions throughout the High Plains and
into the south, the American Red Cross is asking the public to immediately
prepare for the potential increase in storm activity.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a
warning for possibly another line of severe thunderstorms, which could
unexpectedly develop into tornado activity. In the wake of this latest
warning the Red Cross is issuing the following guidelines for storm
preparation:
-- Make a plan for safe shelter -- It is important to know the safest
locations to take cover from a storm at home, work and school. Locate a
basement, center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest floor where
everyone should gather. The area should be windowless and free of
objects that can become projectiles during high winds. If you are in a
high-rise building there may not be time to reach a lower floor before
the storm hits. Head to the center of the building.
-- Build an Emergency Preparedness Kit -- Kits should contain a first aid
kit and essential medications; three-day supply of canned or non-
perishable food and manual can opener; at least three gallons of water
per person; flashlights and a battery-powered radio with extra
batteries; and other emergency items for the whole family, including
pets. Prepare a personal size kit to keep at work and in the car. For
more information on what to include in an Emergency Preparedness Kit,
log on to the Get Prepared section of the Red Cross website at
redcross.
-- Stay Informed of Warnings -- Listen to your local radio and TV stations
for updated storm information. Check with your local emergency
management office to see if email and cell phone weather alerts are
available in your area. A tornado WATCH means there is the possibility
of tornado activity in your area. When a tornado WARNING is issued,
immediately head to your planned safe shelter. If you are outside,
hurry to a nearby sturdy building or lie flat in a ditch or low-lying
area. If you are in a car or mobile home, get out immediately and head
for safety.
The best way to stay protected against dangerous weather is to prepare
and plan well before a storm hits. The Red Cross has information on
preparing for all types of emergencies and disasters, including the Be Red
Cross Ready online educational presentation at
redcross/beredcrossready and the Safe and Well Web site,
accessible from redcross. Safe and Well allows disaster
victims to post standard messages letting family and friends know of their
safety and how to contact them. For more information contact your local Red
Cross chapter.
The American Red Cross helps people prevent, prepare for and respond to
emergencies. Last year, almost a million volunteers and 35,000 employees
helped victims of almost 75,000 disasters; taught lifesaving skills to
millions; and helped U.S. service members separated from their families
stay connected. Almost 4 million people gave blood through the Red Cross,
the largest supplier of blood and blood products in the United States. The
American Red Cross is part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent
Movement. An average of 91 cents of every dollar the Red Cross spends is
invested in humanitarian services and programs. The Red Cross is not a
government agency; it relies on donations of time, money, and blood to do
its work.
USAID Launches Emerging Pandemic Threats Program
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is launching an Emerging Pandemic Threats (EPT) program that builds on the successes of the Agency's long-standing programs in disease surveillance, training, and outbreak response, particularly those addressing avian and pandemic influenza. The focus of the EPT program is to pre-empt or combat, at their source, newly emerging diseases of animal origin that could threaten human health.
The speed with which diseases of animal origin that pose a risk to humans including HIV/AIDS, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), H5N1 avian influenza, and the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus can emerge and spread across the increasingly interconnected globe presents enormous public health, economic, and development concerns. This threat underscores the need for a comprehensive, proactive approach that draws on a wide array of technical resources to build sound detection and response capacity. USAID's EPT program will focus resources on detecting dangerous pathogens at an early stage, building appropriate laboratory capacity to support surveillance, responding in an appropriate and timely manner, strengthening national and local response capacities, and educating at-risk populations on how to prevent exposure to these dangerous pathogens. The EPT program is being managed by USAID with technical support from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the United States Department of Agriculture.
The EPT program is a comprehensive and interconnected intervention package that will be implemented through five projects, each requiring specific technical skill sets, but which will work harmoniously together to provide seamless technical assistance and expertise in the field. The five projects in the EPT program are as follows:
PREDICT: USAID has awarded a five-year cooperative agreement to a constellation of leading experts in wildlife surveillance including University of California Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, Wildlife Conservation Society, Wildlife Trust, The Smithsonian Institute, and Global Viral Forecasting, Inc. to monitor for and increase the local capacity in "geographic hot spots" to identify the emergence of new infectious diseases in high-risk wildlife such as bats, rodents, and non-human primates that could pose a major threat to human health. This award builds on our current monitoring of wild birds for the H5N1 influenza virus to more broadly address the role played by wildlife in facilitating the emergence and spread of new disease threats.
RESPOND: USAID has awarded a five-year cooperative agreement to a coalition of technical resources including Development Alternatives, Inc., University of Minnesota, Tufts University, Training and Resources Group, and Ecology and Environment, Inc. to strengthen the human capacity of countries to identify and respond to outbreaks of newly emergent diseases in a timely and sustainable manner. This project will focus on the development of outbreak investigation and response training that merges animal and human health dynamics into a comprehensive capacity for disease detection and control. This agreement builds on over 30 years of USAID experience in building long-term capacities in health training through twinning U.S. and local academic institutions.
IDENTIFY: USAID is working with the U.N. World Health Organization (WHO), U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) through existing grants to support the development of laboratory networks and strengthened diagnostic capacities in the "geographic hot spots" for new emergent diseases.
PREVENT: USAID has awarded a five-year cooperative agreement to The Academy for Educational Development and Global Viral Forecasting, Inc. to build an effective behavior change communication response to zoonotic diseases, support efforts to characterize "high-risk" practices that increase the potential for new disease threats from wildlife or wildlife products to spread and infect people, and formulate behavior change and/or communication strategies and interventions that meet the challenges posed by the emergence of a new infectious disease. This award builds on ongoing behavior change and communications efforts by USAID to prevent H5N1 transmission.
PREPARE: USAID has awarded a three-year cooperative agreement to International Medical Corps to provide technical support for simulations and field tests of national, regional, and local pandemic preparedness plans to ensure that countries have the capacity to implement response plans effectively during pandemic events.
The American people, through the U.S. Agency for International Development, have provided economic and humanitarian assistance worldwide for nearly 50 years.
Source: U.S. Agency for International Development
The speed with which diseases of animal origin that pose a risk to humans including HIV/AIDS, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), H5N1 avian influenza, and the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus can emerge and spread across the increasingly interconnected globe presents enormous public health, economic, and development concerns. This threat underscores the need for a comprehensive, proactive approach that draws on a wide array of technical resources to build sound detection and response capacity. USAID's EPT program will focus resources on detecting dangerous pathogens at an early stage, building appropriate laboratory capacity to support surveillance, responding in an appropriate and timely manner, strengthening national and local response capacities, and educating at-risk populations on how to prevent exposure to these dangerous pathogens. The EPT program is being managed by USAID with technical support from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the United States Department of Agriculture.
The EPT program is a comprehensive and interconnected intervention package that will be implemented through five projects, each requiring specific technical skill sets, but which will work harmoniously together to provide seamless technical assistance and expertise in the field. The five projects in the EPT program are as follows:
PREDICT: USAID has awarded a five-year cooperative agreement to a constellation of leading experts in wildlife surveillance including University of California Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, Wildlife Conservation Society, Wildlife Trust, The Smithsonian Institute, and Global Viral Forecasting, Inc. to monitor for and increase the local capacity in "geographic hot spots" to identify the emergence of new infectious diseases in high-risk wildlife such as bats, rodents, and non-human primates that could pose a major threat to human health. This award builds on our current monitoring of wild birds for the H5N1 influenza virus to more broadly address the role played by wildlife in facilitating the emergence and spread of new disease threats.
RESPOND: USAID has awarded a five-year cooperative agreement to a coalition of technical resources including Development Alternatives, Inc., University of Minnesota, Tufts University, Training and Resources Group, and Ecology and Environment, Inc. to strengthen the human capacity of countries to identify and respond to outbreaks of newly emergent diseases in a timely and sustainable manner. This project will focus on the development of outbreak investigation and response training that merges animal and human health dynamics into a comprehensive capacity for disease detection and control. This agreement builds on over 30 years of USAID experience in building long-term capacities in health training through twinning U.S. and local academic institutions.
IDENTIFY: USAID is working with the U.N. World Health Organization (WHO), U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) through existing grants to support the development of laboratory networks and strengthened diagnostic capacities in the "geographic hot spots" for new emergent diseases.
PREVENT: USAID has awarded a five-year cooperative agreement to The Academy for Educational Development and Global Viral Forecasting, Inc. to build an effective behavior change communication response to zoonotic diseases, support efforts to characterize "high-risk" practices that increase the potential for new disease threats from wildlife or wildlife products to spread and infect people, and formulate behavior change and/or communication strategies and interventions that meet the challenges posed by the emergence of a new infectious disease. This award builds on ongoing behavior change and communications efforts by USAID to prevent H5N1 transmission.
PREPARE: USAID has awarded a three-year cooperative agreement to International Medical Corps to provide technical support for simulations and field tests of national, regional, and local pandemic preparedness plans to ensure that countries have the capacity to implement response plans effectively during pandemic events.
The American people, through the U.S. Agency for International Development, have provided economic and humanitarian assistance worldwide for nearly 50 years.
Source: U.S. Agency for International Development
суббота, 23 апреля 2011 г.
WFP Rushes More Food Assistance Into Southern Lebanon With One In FiveLebanese Now Homeless
As the situation in Lebanon continues to deteriorate, with one in
five Lebanese homeless and hostilities continuing, the United Nations World
Food Programme (WFP) is racing against time to reach the besieged
population in southern Lebanon with food aid.
Early this morning, WFP dispatched urgent relief convoys to two locations
in southern Lebanon, and started a humanitarian cargo airlift from Italy to
the region.
"There are women and children who face a daily threat not only of shelling
and injury, but of having less and less food and water to sustain them. We
have no time to waste in reaching them," warned Amer Daoudi, Emergency
Coordinator for the WFP operation in Lebanon.
Today's convoys are heading to the cities of Sidon and Jezzine, all packed
with stranded people. The 8-truck convoy for Jezzine is carrying 90 metric
tons of WFP wheat flour, 15 tons of canned meat and critical supplies such
blankets and shelter materials from M?decins Sans Fronti?res (MSF). The
10-truck convoy for Sidon is carrying 18 tons of food including six
truckloads from UNRWA for Palestinian refugees in camps. The convoys also
include critical medical and shelter materials being delivered on behalf of
UNDP, UNHCR, UNICEF and WHO.
More convoys are planned for the following days. WFP is working as quickly
as possible to mobilise as many trucks as possible, as well as truck
drivers willing to travel the dangerous roads. Fuel availability and rising
prices are also growing concerns.
Staff who travelled on Wednesday's first UN humanitarian convoy to Tyre
witnessed a stream of deserted villages, and small cities packed with
displaced people who have no money to buy food and water. Those fleeing
were caught in bumper-to-bumper traffic heading north. The city of Tyre
was the site of heavy bombardment on Wednesday, with shells landing in the
vicinity of the just-arrived UN convoy.
"A greater catastrophe is in the making if we don't assist people soon,"
stressed Daoudi.
In addition to the convoys, WFP is starting today a humanitarian cargo
airlift using a dedicated Ilyushin-76 aircraft. The first delivery from the
UN humanitarian depot in Brindisi includes 20 temporary warehouses and five
generators for WFP. The aircraft will land in the Syrian town of Latakkia,
from where supplies will be transported overland to Al-Arida, a Syrian
border post that is WFP's loading hub for all UN humanitarian supplies to
be transported by road into Lebanon on UN-escorted convoys. Another flight
is planned for tomorrow.
WFP is the lead UN agency for the logistics of transporting humanitarian
aid to and within Lebanon. WFP is appealing for US$48 million for logistics
and food, with a particularly need for cash contributions. The value of the
special logistics operation alone is US$38 million. WFP plans to discharge
up to 12,000 metric tons of food and non-food relief items per month and to
provide a common UN trucking fleet to UN agencies, international and
non-governmental organizations.
Against its appeal, the first contributions made to WFP are 90 MT of wheat
flour from the Government of Lebanon and US$ 635,000 from Spain. Many
governments have given strong indications of commitments to WFP's operation
including Australia, Belgium, Denmark, the European Commission, Germany,
Italy, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United States.
The conflict has left at least 800,000 people displaced amidst the wreckage
of damaged infrastructure and a shortage of essential goods and services.
WFP has already begun distributing 25 metric tons of high-energy biscuits
to 95,000 displaced people in and around Beirut.
WFP will give priority to distributing assistance to those most in need,
including 95,000 displaced people seeking shelter in schools and public
institutions in Beirut, 165,000 people in the heaviest-hit areas in
southern Lebanon and 50,000 of the approximately 140,000 people in Syria
who have fled the conflict.
WFP is the world's largest humanitarian agency: each year, we give food to
an average of 90 million poor people to meet their nutritional needs,
including 58 million hungry children, in at least 80 of the world's poorest
countries. WFP -- We Feed People.
WFP now has a dedicated ISDN line in Italy for quality two-way interviews
with WFP officials.
five Lebanese homeless and hostilities continuing, the United Nations World
Food Programme (WFP) is racing against time to reach the besieged
population in southern Lebanon with food aid.
Early this morning, WFP dispatched urgent relief convoys to two locations
in southern Lebanon, and started a humanitarian cargo airlift from Italy to
the region.
"There are women and children who face a daily threat not only of shelling
and injury, but of having less and less food and water to sustain them. We
have no time to waste in reaching them," warned Amer Daoudi, Emergency
Coordinator for the WFP operation in Lebanon.
Today's convoys are heading to the cities of Sidon and Jezzine, all packed
with stranded people. The 8-truck convoy for Jezzine is carrying 90 metric
tons of WFP wheat flour, 15 tons of canned meat and critical supplies such
blankets and shelter materials from M?decins Sans Fronti?res (MSF). The
10-truck convoy for Sidon is carrying 18 tons of food including six
truckloads from UNRWA for Palestinian refugees in camps. The convoys also
include critical medical and shelter materials being delivered on behalf of
UNDP, UNHCR, UNICEF and WHO.
More convoys are planned for the following days. WFP is working as quickly
as possible to mobilise as many trucks as possible, as well as truck
drivers willing to travel the dangerous roads. Fuel availability and rising
prices are also growing concerns.
Staff who travelled on Wednesday's first UN humanitarian convoy to Tyre
witnessed a stream of deserted villages, and small cities packed with
displaced people who have no money to buy food and water. Those fleeing
were caught in bumper-to-bumper traffic heading north. The city of Tyre
was the site of heavy bombardment on Wednesday, with shells landing in the
vicinity of the just-arrived UN convoy.
"A greater catastrophe is in the making if we don't assist people soon,"
stressed Daoudi.
In addition to the convoys, WFP is starting today a humanitarian cargo
airlift using a dedicated Ilyushin-76 aircraft. The first delivery from the
UN humanitarian depot in Brindisi includes 20 temporary warehouses and five
generators for WFP. The aircraft will land in the Syrian town of Latakkia,
from where supplies will be transported overland to Al-Arida, a Syrian
border post that is WFP's loading hub for all UN humanitarian supplies to
be transported by road into Lebanon on UN-escorted convoys. Another flight
is planned for tomorrow.
WFP is the lead UN agency for the logistics of transporting humanitarian
aid to and within Lebanon. WFP is appealing for US$48 million for logistics
and food, with a particularly need for cash contributions. The value of the
special logistics operation alone is US$38 million. WFP plans to discharge
up to 12,000 metric tons of food and non-food relief items per month and to
provide a common UN trucking fleet to UN agencies, international and
non-governmental organizations.
Against its appeal, the first contributions made to WFP are 90 MT of wheat
flour from the Government of Lebanon and US$ 635,000 from Spain. Many
governments have given strong indications of commitments to WFP's operation
including Australia, Belgium, Denmark, the European Commission, Germany,
Italy, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United States.
The conflict has left at least 800,000 people displaced amidst the wreckage
of damaged infrastructure and a shortage of essential goods and services.
WFP has already begun distributing 25 metric tons of high-energy biscuits
to 95,000 displaced people in and around Beirut.
WFP will give priority to distributing assistance to those most in need,
including 95,000 displaced people seeking shelter in schools and public
institutions in Beirut, 165,000 people in the heaviest-hit areas in
southern Lebanon and 50,000 of the approximately 140,000 people in Syria
who have fled the conflict.
WFP is the world's largest humanitarian agency: each year, we give food to
an average of 90 million poor people to meet their nutritional needs,
including 58 million hungry children, in at least 80 of the world's poorest
countries. WFP -- We Feed People.
WFP now has a dedicated ISDN line in Italy for quality two-way interviews
with WFP officials.
пятница, 22 апреля 2011 г.
UK Dept of Health allocates ??4.5 million to boost direct payments to 44 charities
UK Health Minister Stephen Ladyman, today allocated funding of ??4.5 million to 44 charities to create and boost schemes encouraging people to take up direct payments (cash in lieu of social services).
This announcement marks the completion of the second round of successful bids for the Direct Payments Development Fund. Working in partnership with local councils, voluntary organisations over the next 18 months will encourage people to exercise choice and control through the use of direct payments. The partnerships are expected to be up and running by 1 September 2004. The first round of successful bids was announced in August 2003.
Projects from the first round have been promoting direct payments in a number of innovative ways. For example,
-- Gateshead Crossroads are using 'social telephony' to get people into networks to talk about direct payments and support each other.
-- In Salford, the Council for Voluntary Services are developing elected user groups, trained to provide advocacy and support to their peers.
-- Equalities in Waltham Forest have employed outreach workers to go into mosques, churches, hospitals, doctors surgeries and voluntary organisations to talk to people from black and minority ethnic communities about direct payments.
Direct payments are key in the Government's commitment to promoting independence and freedom of choice for those needing care and support. By giving individuals money in lieu of social services people have greater choice and control over their lives, and are able to make their own decisions about how their care is delivered.
Dr. Ladyman said:
"We are pleased to announce today the successful bids to the second stage of the Direct Payments Development Fund. This Government has provided ??9m over three years to enable voluntary organisations in partnership with councils to actively establish direct payments as an option for people across the country.
"We know that direct payments have made an enormous difference to people's lives. For example, a woman in Hampshire has told us that she had nearly been driven to distraction by 'carers' she had been sent under her domiciliary care arrangements. She explained that she needs a lot of intimate personal assistance, and had found it difficult to allow 'carers' to provide that degree of personal care and when it was different people nearly every time she found it extremely upsetting. She now has a direct payment and employs a personal assistant that she has known for a number of years. She now says that she is alive again and feels in control of her life.
"It is stories like this that make me realise how valuable direct payments are and how important it is for Government to ensure that people are able to exercise much more control and choice in their lives. "
This announcement marks the completion of the second round of successful bids for the Direct Payments Development Fund. Working in partnership with local councils, voluntary organisations over the next 18 months will encourage people to exercise choice and control through the use of direct payments. The partnerships are expected to be up and running by 1 September 2004. The first round of successful bids was announced in August 2003.
Projects from the first round have been promoting direct payments in a number of innovative ways. For example,
-- Gateshead Crossroads are using 'social telephony' to get people into networks to talk about direct payments and support each other.
-- In Salford, the Council for Voluntary Services are developing elected user groups, trained to provide advocacy and support to their peers.
-- Equalities in Waltham Forest have employed outreach workers to go into mosques, churches, hospitals, doctors surgeries and voluntary organisations to talk to people from black and minority ethnic communities about direct payments.
Direct payments are key in the Government's commitment to promoting independence and freedom of choice for those needing care and support. By giving individuals money in lieu of social services people have greater choice and control over their lives, and are able to make their own decisions about how their care is delivered.
Dr. Ladyman said:
"We are pleased to announce today the successful bids to the second stage of the Direct Payments Development Fund. This Government has provided ??9m over three years to enable voluntary organisations in partnership with councils to actively establish direct payments as an option for people across the country.
"We know that direct payments have made an enormous difference to people's lives. For example, a woman in Hampshire has told us that she had nearly been driven to distraction by 'carers' she had been sent under her domiciliary care arrangements. She explained that she needs a lot of intimate personal assistance, and had found it difficult to allow 'carers' to provide that degree of personal care and when it was different people nearly every time she found it extremely upsetting. She now has a direct payment and employs a personal assistant that she has known for a number of years. She now says that she is alive again and feels in control of her life.
"It is stories like this that make me realise how valuable direct payments are and how important it is for Government to ensure that people are able to exercise much more control and choice in their lives. "
четверг, 21 апреля 2011 г.
London Bombings - Update from London Metropolitan Police
The Metropolitan Police Casualty Bureau is open and operating on 0870 1566344.
If you are concerned about relatives or friends who may have been affected by today's incidents in London, please try and contact them directly before you call this number.
If you are unsuccessful and still have concerns that your friends or relatives may have been injured in the events, contact Casualty Bureau on 0870 1566344.
The Metropolitan Police would also like to hear from people who were injured or involved in the events so that we know they are safe.
We are experiencing a very high volume of calls to this line - at present we are receiving 42,000 calls per hour. We would therefore urge anyone calling it to please be patient whilst we continue answering as many calls as possible.
The Casualty Bureau number should be used for this purpose only and NOT for general enquiries. Anyone with enquiries about travel information should contact Transport for London on 020 7222 1234 or tfl.uk.
We would like to reassure people that we are working hard to gain an accurate picture of the whereabouts of people believed to have been involved in the incidents.
If you have reached home, please contact people who will be worried about you. This will help relieve the pressure on the Casualty Bureau.
All emergency calls should be made through the 999 system. Non-emergency calls should be made to your local police station.
We now know the total number of fatalities to be 37:
- there were 21 fatalities at King's Cross / Russell Square
- there were 7 fatalities at Edgware Road
- there were 7 fatalities at Liverpool Street
- there were 2 fatalities on the bus at Upper Woburn Place.
The total number of casualties is known to be approximately 700. Of those, 300 were taken to hospital by ambulance and the remainder presented themselves at hospital.
There follows an outline of this morning's events:
At 08.51 on 7 July at Liverpool Street Station there was an explosion in a train carriage 100 yards into the (Liverpool Street-bound station) tunnel.
At 08.56 there was another incident at King's Cross / Russell Square. Both stations were used to bring out casualties.
There are two mortuaries for this incident - these are at the Royal National Hotel and the Holiday Inn in Bloomsbury.
At 09.17 there was an explosion on a train coming into Edgware Road underground station approximately 100 yards into the tunnel. This explosion blew through a wall onto another train on an adjoining platform.
Three trains are believed to have been involved.
At 09.47 there was an explosion on a bus at Upper Woburn Square junction with Tavistock Place.
There were four devices in total and there are 37 confirmed fatalities. There was no warning to police and we have not received any claims of responsibility.
These were callous attacks on innocent members of the public deliberately designed to kill and inflict maximum injury.
If you are concerned about relatives or friends who may have been affected by today's incidents in London, please try and contact them directly before you call this number.
If you are unsuccessful and still have concerns that your friends or relatives may have been injured in the events, contact Casualty Bureau on 0870 1566344.
The Metropolitan Police would also like to hear from people who were injured or involved in the events so that we know they are safe.
We are experiencing a very high volume of calls to this line - at present we are receiving 42,000 calls per hour. We would therefore urge anyone calling it to please be patient whilst we continue answering as many calls as possible.
The Casualty Bureau number should be used for this purpose only and NOT for general enquiries. Anyone with enquiries about travel information should contact Transport for London on 020 7222 1234 or tfl.uk.
We would like to reassure people that we are working hard to gain an accurate picture of the whereabouts of people believed to have been involved in the incidents.
If you have reached home, please contact people who will be worried about you. This will help relieve the pressure on the Casualty Bureau.
All emergency calls should be made through the 999 system. Non-emergency calls should be made to your local police station.
We now know the total number of fatalities to be 37:
- there were 21 fatalities at King's Cross / Russell Square
- there were 7 fatalities at Edgware Road
- there were 7 fatalities at Liverpool Street
- there were 2 fatalities on the bus at Upper Woburn Place.
The total number of casualties is known to be approximately 700. Of those, 300 were taken to hospital by ambulance and the remainder presented themselves at hospital.
There follows an outline of this morning's events:
At 08.51 on 7 July at Liverpool Street Station there was an explosion in a train carriage 100 yards into the (Liverpool Street-bound station) tunnel.
At 08.56 there was another incident at King's Cross / Russell Square. Both stations were used to bring out casualties.
There are two mortuaries for this incident - these are at the Royal National Hotel and the Holiday Inn in Bloomsbury.
At 09.17 there was an explosion on a train coming into Edgware Road underground station approximately 100 yards into the tunnel. This explosion blew through a wall onto another train on an adjoining platform.
Three trains are believed to have been involved.
At 09.47 there was an explosion on a bus at Upper Woburn Square junction with Tavistock Place.
There were four devices in total and there are 37 confirmed fatalities. There was no warning to police and we have not received any claims of responsibility.
These were callous attacks on innocent members of the public deliberately designed to kill and inflict maximum injury.
среда, 20 апреля 2011 г.
To Manage Climate Variability And Save Lives Increased Collaboration And Awareness Is Critical
As the world continues to experience extreme weather events, including recent heat waves in the United States and Europe as well as drought in Africa and severe monsoons in Asia, the need to better manage climate variability is becoming increasingly urgent. The UN World Meteorological Organization, together with the Finnish Meteorological Institute and the International Research Institute for Climate and Society, gathered together more than 250 stakeholders for The Living with Climate Variability and Change conference to discuss practical ways of achieving better management of climate risks in their short- and long-term operations.
Economies of all societies are vulnerable to climate change, but with limited resources, developing countries are particularly at risk of incurring higher losses, both in human life and economic investment, noted keynote speaker Jeffrey D. Sachs, director of The Earth Institute at Columbia University. Climate variability has led to dire consequences, both direct and indirect, including devastating famines, epidemics, social unrest and armed conflict in many underserved areas of the world.
In Espoo, Finland, representatives from over 60 countries agreed that better understanding, operational integration of climate information, collaboration, and increased and ongoing dialogue are currently among their best weapons for dealing with climate variability and change. A lack of awareness of climate-related risk management has been a major obstacle to improved prevention and reduction of loss.
Over the course of five days, dialogue among experts in the fields of agriculture and food security; natural disasters; water resources; energy and the built environment; public health; and decision making and policy resulted in a statement of agreement that captured the spirit of discussion and commitment to enabling their local communities--as well as the wider international community--to increase awareness of climate risk and help translate this awareness into real action.
Conference participants issued a final statement, underscoring the need for partnerships among stakeholders and across sectors. In particular, they recommended that effective mechanisms for climate-related risk management be developed to facilitate coordinated activities among multilateral organizations, civil society and private interests at national, regional and international levels.
The Living with Climate Variability and Change conference was held in Espoo, Finland, on 17 July, concluding 21 July. The second conference will take place in Madrid in 2007.
Economies of all societies are vulnerable to climate change, but with limited resources, developing countries are particularly at risk of incurring higher losses, both in human life and economic investment, noted keynote speaker Jeffrey D. Sachs, director of The Earth Institute at Columbia University. Climate variability has led to dire consequences, both direct and indirect, including devastating famines, epidemics, social unrest and armed conflict in many underserved areas of the world.
In Espoo, Finland, representatives from over 60 countries agreed that better understanding, operational integration of climate information, collaboration, and increased and ongoing dialogue are currently among their best weapons for dealing with climate variability and change. A lack of awareness of climate-related risk management has been a major obstacle to improved prevention and reduction of loss.
Over the course of five days, dialogue among experts in the fields of agriculture and food security; natural disasters; water resources; energy and the built environment; public health; and decision making and policy resulted in a statement of agreement that captured the spirit of discussion and commitment to enabling their local communities--as well as the wider international community--to increase awareness of climate risk and help translate this awareness into real action.
Conference participants issued a final statement, underscoring the need for partnerships among stakeholders and across sectors. In particular, they recommended that effective mechanisms for climate-related risk management be developed to facilitate coordinated activities among multilateral organizations, civil society and private interests at national, regional and international levels.
The Living with Climate Variability and Change conference was held in Espoo, Finland, on 17 July, concluding 21 July. The second conference will take place in Madrid in 2007.
вторник, 19 апреля 2011 г.
One Year Later: Red Cross Helping Peru Earthquake Survivors Rebuild
When the massive
earthquake struck this region last August 15th, it left communities
crumbled, infrastructure destroyed and nearly 140,000 people homeless.
Although the spotlight has moved on, the American Red Cross is still on the
ground, working with the Peruvian Red Cross to help families rebuild
physically and mentally.
"Immediately we flew in relief supplies, Red Cross disaster experts and
the cash needed to help our sister society the Peruvian Red Cross," said
Eric Baranick, Head of the American Red Cross delegation in Peru, "but the
outpouring of kindness and generosity from donors has allowed us to stay,
helping those who lost their homes and communities recover beyond the first
critical months."
In the past year, nearly 2,000 families have been given the skills and
materials by the American Red Cross to build temporary wooden houses until
their new permanent homes could be built. The small wooden houses provide
dignity, privacy and warmth and are sturdy and flexible enough to withstand
high winds and recurrent tremors.
Boards, hammers and nails cannot fix all the damage; for some, the
effect of seeing their home and community destroyed runs much deeper. To
help heal the psychological impact, the American Red Cross supports
community activities like singing, dancing and arts and crafts.
"These activities help restore important community and social networks
that are often stressed during a disaster," says Erika Velasquez, the local
Disaster Risk Reduction Coordinator from the Peruvian Red Cross. "We even
notice the impact among our volunteers. Now we recognize our stress and
lift each others spirits using techniques we learned from the American Red
Cross workers. It really helps!"
The American Red Cross is still working in more than 30 communities in
the earthquake affected region which is the size of New Jersey. The
organization plans to stay until at least next summer, working to
strengthen the Peruvian Red Cross and helping the communities get prepared
for future disasters.
You can help the victims of countless crises around the world each year
by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross International Response
Fund, which will provide immediate relief and long-term support through
supplies, technical assistance and other support to help those in need. The
American Red Cross honors donor intent.
earthquake struck this region last August 15th, it left communities
crumbled, infrastructure destroyed and nearly 140,000 people homeless.
Although the spotlight has moved on, the American Red Cross is still on the
ground, working with the Peruvian Red Cross to help families rebuild
physically and mentally.
"Immediately we flew in relief supplies, Red Cross disaster experts and
the cash needed to help our sister society the Peruvian Red Cross," said
Eric Baranick, Head of the American Red Cross delegation in Peru, "but the
outpouring of kindness and generosity from donors has allowed us to stay,
helping those who lost their homes and communities recover beyond the first
critical months."
In the past year, nearly 2,000 families have been given the skills and
materials by the American Red Cross to build temporary wooden houses until
their new permanent homes could be built. The small wooden houses provide
dignity, privacy and warmth and are sturdy and flexible enough to withstand
high winds and recurrent tremors.
Boards, hammers and nails cannot fix all the damage; for some, the
effect of seeing their home and community destroyed runs much deeper. To
help heal the psychological impact, the American Red Cross supports
community activities like singing, dancing and arts and crafts.
"These activities help restore important community and social networks
that are often stressed during a disaster," says Erika Velasquez, the local
Disaster Risk Reduction Coordinator from the Peruvian Red Cross. "We even
notice the impact among our volunteers. Now we recognize our stress and
lift each others spirits using techniques we learned from the American Red
Cross workers. It really helps!"
The American Red Cross is still working in more than 30 communities in
the earthquake affected region which is the size of New Jersey. The
organization plans to stay until at least next summer, working to
strengthen the Peruvian Red Cross and helping the communities get prepared
for future disasters.
You can help the victims of countless crises around the world each year
by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross International Response
Fund, which will provide immediate relief and long-term support through
supplies, technical assistance and other support to help those in need. The
American Red Cross honors donor intent.
понедельник, 18 апреля 2011 г.
Creighton Surgical Team To Treat Earthquake Survivors
A nine-member Creighton University surgical team departed at noon on Saturday, Jan. 16, on a private passenger jet bound for the Dominican Republic, where they plan to help treat victims of the Haiti earthquake. The Dominican Republic borders Haiti.
The team also took with them vital medical and other supplies provided by Creighton's School of Medicine, Creighton University Medical Center and Tenet Healthcare. A private donor paid for the one-way flight, and a donated return flight is being sought.
The trip, planned over a 36-hour period, was organized by Creighton surgeon Brian Loggie. Team members, who took vacation time to participate in the effort, plan to stay for about a week.
"We have more people who wanted to go than we have seats. ??¦We hope that some of them may be able to come on another plane next week," Loggie said.
Team members did not know Saturday whether they would treat patients at the Institute for Latin American Concern near Santiago, where Creighton students and faculty conduct a number of service trips annually, or at a private clinic in the Dominican border town of Jimani, where many earthquake victims are now seeking care.
Creighton medical students are also raising money for Haiti relief, challenging faculty, staff and community members to contribute. Both the University and its Jesuit community have committed funds to the Jesuit Refugee Service to support continued relief efforts.
Source
Creighton University
The team also took with them vital medical and other supplies provided by Creighton's School of Medicine, Creighton University Medical Center and Tenet Healthcare. A private donor paid for the one-way flight, and a donated return flight is being sought.
The trip, planned over a 36-hour period, was organized by Creighton surgeon Brian Loggie. Team members, who took vacation time to participate in the effort, plan to stay for about a week.
"We have more people who wanted to go than we have seats. ??¦We hope that some of them may be able to come on another plane next week," Loggie said.
Team members did not know Saturday whether they would treat patients at the Institute for Latin American Concern near Santiago, where Creighton students and faculty conduct a number of service trips annually, or at a private clinic in the Dominican border town of Jimani, where many earthquake victims are now seeking care.
Creighton medical students are also raising money for Haiti relief, challenging faculty, staff and community members to contribute. Both the University and its Jesuit community have committed funds to the Jesuit Refugee Service to support continued relief efforts.
Source
Creighton University
воскресенье, 17 апреля 2011 г.
Major Food Appeal For Zimbabwe As WFP Relief Distributions Begin
With more than five million Zimbabweans facing severe food
shortages, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) today appealed for
US$140 million to provide vital relief rations over the next six months.
Without additional contributions, WFP warned it will run out of stocks in
January - at the very peak of the crisis.
"Millions of Zimbabweans have already run out of food or are surviving on
just one meal a day - and the crisis is going to get much worse in the
coming months," said Mustapha Darboe, WFP Regional Director for East,
Central and Southern Africa. "WFP can prevent this crisis from becoming a
disaster but we need more donations - and we need them now."
According to the FAO/WFP Crop and Food Supply Assessment Mission, more than
2 million people are already in need of assistance. This figure will rise
to 5.1 million - or 45 percent of the population - in early 2009. WFP is
planning to assist around 4 million of those affected.
The situation is already critical in many rural areas, particularly in the
worst affected southern districts but also in some districts in the east,
centre and northwest of the country. A large number of farmers harvested
little - if anything - this year and have now exhausted their meager
stocks. Many hungry families are reportedly living on one meal a day,
exchanging precious livestock for buckets of maize or eating wild foods
such as baobab and amarula.
Delayed by the government's three-month suspension of most NGO field
activities, WFP and its NGO partners began distributing monthly emergency
rations under the large-scale vulnerable group feeding programme at the
start of October, targeting rural communities worst affected by this year's
very poor harvest.
Tens of thousands of beneficiaries have already received life-saving food
assistance under this programme over the past week and WFP hopes to reach
1.8 million by the end of the month. Operations will be scaled up to around
3.3 million in the first three months of 2009 before the main cereal
harvest begins in April.
In addition, WFP is targeting around 800,000 people each month under its
separate safety-net programmes - taking its overall caseload to around 2.5
million in October and more than 4 million in the first three months of
2009.
Given the nationwide nature of the food shortages, WFP will expand its
relief programme to 37 districts - five more than in previous years. WFP
will also enhance the nutritional quality of its food basket by adding
corn-soya blend to its basic mix of cereals, pulses and vegetable oil to
help prevent malnutrition rates from rising. In Zimbabwe, 28 percent of
children under five are already chronically malnourished.
To boost its already-substantial logistics operation, WFP has opened a new
transhipment point in the central town of Gweru and a new warehouse in the
South African border town of Musina, which has the capacity to bag 50,000
tons of food over the next six months.
But these plans are all subject to sufficient donations arriving in time.
WFP currently faces a shortfall of over 145,000 metric tons of food,
including 110,000 tons of cereals. Without extra donations, WFP will run
out of supplies in January - just as needs are peaking.
"Our donors have been extraordinarily generous over the past six years,
but the food crisis is far from over. We are urging them to dig deep once
again," said Darboe, adding that cash donations will allow WFP to purchase
crucial commodities regionally.
In addition to WFP's beneficiaries, a group of US-sponsored NGOs known as
C-SAFE plans to provide food to over 1 million Zimbabweans in districts not
covered by WFP. With these two humanitarian pipelines, food assistance
should reach around 5 million people at the peak of the crisis.
While WFP has received almost US$175 million so far in 2008, another US$140
million is urgently needed to fund WFP's huge emergency operation until
April 2009.
Donors to WFP's operations in Zimbabwe in 2008 include: United States
(US$105 million); United Kingdom (US$18 million); Australia (US$14
million); Netherlands (US$11 million); EC (US$10 million); Canada (US$6
million); Japan (US$3 million); Norway (US$2 million); Switzerland (US$1.8
million); Ireland (US$1.5 million); Sweden (US$ 1.2 million); Italy
(US$780,000); Spain (US$470,000); and, Greece (US$72,000).
WFP is the world's largest humanitarian agency and the UN's frontline
agency for hunger solutions. This year, WFP plans to feed 90 million people
in 80 countries.
shortages, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) today appealed for
US$140 million to provide vital relief rations over the next six months.
Without additional contributions, WFP warned it will run out of stocks in
January - at the very peak of the crisis.
"Millions of Zimbabweans have already run out of food or are surviving on
just one meal a day - and the crisis is going to get much worse in the
coming months," said Mustapha Darboe, WFP Regional Director for East,
Central and Southern Africa. "WFP can prevent this crisis from becoming a
disaster but we need more donations - and we need them now."
According to the FAO/WFP Crop and Food Supply Assessment Mission, more than
2 million people are already in need of assistance. This figure will rise
to 5.1 million - or 45 percent of the population - in early 2009. WFP is
planning to assist around 4 million of those affected.
The situation is already critical in many rural areas, particularly in the
worst affected southern districts but also in some districts in the east,
centre and northwest of the country. A large number of farmers harvested
little - if anything - this year and have now exhausted their meager
stocks. Many hungry families are reportedly living on one meal a day,
exchanging precious livestock for buckets of maize or eating wild foods
such as baobab and amarula.
Delayed by the government's three-month suspension of most NGO field
activities, WFP and its NGO partners began distributing monthly emergency
rations under the large-scale vulnerable group feeding programme at the
start of October, targeting rural communities worst affected by this year's
very poor harvest.
Tens of thousands of beneficiaries have already received life-saving food
assistance under this programme over the past week and WFP hopes to reach
1.8 million by the end of the month. Operations will be scaled up to around
3.3 million in the first three months of 2009 before the main cereal
harvest begins in April.
In addition, WFP is targeting around 800,000 people each month under its
separate safety-net programmes - taking its overall caseload to around 2.5
million in October and more than 4 million in the first three months of
2009.
Given the nationwide nature of the food shortages, WFP will expand its
relief programme to 37 districts - five more than in previous years. WFP
will also enhance the nutritional quality of its food basket by adding
corn-soya blend to its basic mix of cereals, pulses and vegetable oil to
help prevent malnutrition rates from rising. In Zimbabwe, 28 percent of
children under five are already chronically malnourished.
To boost its already-substantial logistics operation, WFP has opened a new
transhipment point in the central town of Gweru and a new warehouse in the
South African border town of Musina, which has the capacity to bag 50,000
tons of food over the next six months.
But these plans are all subject to sufficient donations arriving in time.
WFP currently faces a shortfall of over 145,000 metric tons of food,
including 110,000 tons of cereals. Without extra donations, WFP will run
out of supplies in January - just as needs are peaking.
"Our donors have been extraordinarily generous over the past six years,
but the food crisis is far from over. We are urging them to dig deep once
again," said Darboe, adding that cash donations will allow WFP to purchase
crucial commodities regionally.
In addition to WFP's beneficiaries, a group of US-sponsored NGOs known as
C-SAFE plans to provide food to over 1 million Zimbabweans in districts not
covered by WFP. With these two humanitarian pipelines, food assistance
should reach around 5 million people at the peak of the crisis.
While WFP has received almost US$175 million so far in 2008, another US$140
million is urgently needed to fund WFP's huge emergency operation until
April 2009.
Donors to WFP's operations in Zimbabwe in 2008 include: United States
(US$105 million); United Kingdom (US$18 million); Australia (US$14
million); Netherlands (US$11 million); EC (US$10 million); Canada (US$6
million); Japan (US$3 million); Norway (US$2 million); Switzerland (US$1.8
million); Ireland (US$1.5 million); Sweden (US$ 1.2 million); Italy
(US$780,000); Spain (US$470,000); and, Greece (US$72,000).
WFP is the world's largest humanitarian agency and the UN's frontline
agency for hunger solutions. This year, WFP plans to feed 90 million people
in 80 countries.
суббота, 16 апреля 2011 г.
Hands On Disaster Response Extends Cyclone Relief Project
Hands On Disaster
Response (HODR), a volunteer-driven 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization,
recently announced the extension of Project Rayenda, their volunteer
project in Rayenda, Bangladesh to help those devastated by Cyclone Sidr.
This disaster, the most significant in Bangladesh in over 15 years, hit the
coastline November 15, 2007, killing over 3,500 and extensively damaging
over 1 million homes, businesses, and schools.
Since the start of Project Rayenda on January 5, 2008 HODR volunteers
have been effectively working with the community and other relief
organizations to restore normalcy and improve living conditions. HODR has
partnered with fellow international NGO Save The Children by helping staff
their "safe spaces." These spaces provide kids affected by Cyclone Sidr a
safe playing environment. HODR and Save the Children have also teamed up to
build five playgrounds. These communities have never had playground
equipment before and are incredibly excited about this project. To fulfill
this commitment, HODR has extended Project Rayenda until April 17. The
volunteers will continue to work on a mixture of shelter, community and
playground building projects.
HODR is still accepting volunteers for Project Rayenda. There is no
charge to the volunteers except transportation to the volunteer base. In
exchange for volunteer time and resources, HODR provides food, shelter, and
a dynamic, rewarding work experience. For more information, visit their
website, HODR.
HODR is also still in need of monetary donations to offset the costs of
these projects. Donations can be made securely on their website,
HODR. All donations are tax-deductible and will be used effectively
in this relief project. All funds donated to HODR go directly towards these
efforts to help run a successful relief project. Please give generously to
support our volunteers and the people they assist.
ABOUT: Hands On Disaster Response is a US-based, volunteer-driven,
501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to timely disaster response and
relief. HODR strives to provide hands-on relief to survivors of natural
disasters with maximum speed and minimum bureaucracy. Our projects focus on
applying volunteer resources and expertise to communities affected by
natural disaster. Previous projects have included Thailand (2004 Southeast
Asian Tsunami), USA (Hurricane Katrina), Indonesia (2006 Jogjakarta
earthquake), the Philippines (Typhoon Reming) Peru (2007 Pisco Earthquake),
Bangladesh (Cyclone Sidr), and USA (2008 Arkansas tornadoes). Donations
made to HODR are tax deductible.
Hands On Disaster Response
hodr
Response (HODR), a volunteer-driven 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization,
recently announced the extension of Project Rayenda, their volunteer
project in Rayenda, Bangladesh to help those devastated by Cyclone Sidr.
This disaster, the most significant in Bangladesh in over 15 years, hit the
coastline November 15, 2007, killing over 3,500 and extensively damaging
over 1 million homes, businesses, and schools.
Since the start of Project Rayenda on January 5, 2008 HODR volunteers
have been effectively working with the community and other relief
organizations to restore normalcy and improve living conditions. HODR has
partnered with fellow international NGO Save The Children by helping staff
their "safe spaces." These spaces provide kids affected by Cyclone Sidr a
safe playing environment. HODR and Save the Children have also teamed up to
build five playgrounds. These communities have never had playground
equipment before and are incredibly excited about this project. To fulfill
this commitment, HODR has extended Project Rayenda until April 17. The
volunteers will continue to work on a mixture of shelter, community and
playground building projects.
HODR is still accepting volunteers for Project Rayenda. There is no
charge to the volunteers except transportation to the volunteer base. In
exchange for volunteer time and resources, HODR provides food, shelter, and
a dynamic, rewarding work experience. For more information, visit their
website, HODR.
HODR is also still in need of monetary donations to offset the costs of
these projects. Donations can be made securely on their website,
HODR. All donations are tax-deductible and will be used effectively
in this relief project. All funds donated to HODR go directly towards these
efforts to help run a successful relief project. Please give generously to
support our volunteers and the people they assist.
ABOUT: Hands On Disaster Response is a US-based, volunteer-driven,
501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to timely disaster response and
relief. HODR strives to provide hands-on relief to survivors of natural
disasters with maximum speed and minimum bureaucracy. Our projects focus on
applying volunteer resources and expertise to communities affected by
natural disaster. Previous projects have included Thailand (2004 Southeast
Asian Tsunami), USA (Hurricane Katrina), Indonesia (2006 Jogjakarta
earthquake), the Philippines (Typhoon Reming) Peru (2007 Pisco Earthquake),
Bangladesh (Cyclone Sidr), and USA (2008 Arkansas tornadoes). Donations
made to HODR are tax deductible.
Hands On Disaster Response
hodr
Red Cross Lending A Hand To Flood Victims Unable To Go Home
The American Red Cross sheltered more than 420 people in Georgia and Tennessee overnight, a signal that even though flood waters are slowly receding, many are still unable to return to their homes.
The Red Cross has more than 200 volunteers and staff and 18 Emergency Response Vehicles (ERVs) in the area with more on standby. Clean up and comfort kits are being distributed and almost 2,000 meals have been served to those affected by the flooding. Officials say early estimates show as many as 3,000 homes may be affected with damages estimated at $250 million.
Red Cross is partnering with Southern Baptist Convention which has one mobile kitchen in operation and another on alert if needed. Other partners include Samaritan's Purse, Georgia Association of Food Banks, Church of Latter Day Saints, Church World Service, and NECHAMA.
"Our focus is on making people as comfortable as possible, feeding them and taking care of their immediate needs," said Joe Becker, Red Cross Disaster Services senior vice president. "We have the workers, equipment and supplies here on the ground to do that with more on standby if needed."
As the waters recede, the Red Cross issues these steps people should take to remain safe as they return to their neighborhoods:
- Return home only when officials have declared the area safe.
- Before entering your home, look outside for loose power lines, damaged gas lines, foundation cracks or other damage.
- Parts of your home may be collapsed or damaged. Approach entrances carefully. See if porch roofs and overhangs have all their supports.
- Watch out for wild animals, especially poisonous snakes that may have come into your home with the floodwater.
- If you smell natural or propane gas or hear a hissing noise, leave immediately and call the fire department.
- If power lines are down outside your home, do not step in puddles or standing water.
- Keep children and pets away from hazardous sites and floodwater.
- Materials such as cleaning products, paint, batteries, contaminated fuel and damaged fuel containers are hazardous. Check with local authorities for assistance with disposal to avoid risk.
- During cleanup, wear protective clothing, including rubber gloves and rubber boots.
- Make sure your food and water are safe. Discard items that have come in contact with floodwater, including canned goods, water bottles, plastic utensils and baby bottle nipples. When in doubt, throw it out!
- Do not use water that could be contaminated to wash dishes, brush teeth, prepare food, wash hands, make ice or make baby formula.
- Contact your local or state public health department for specific recommendations for boiling or treating water in your area after a disaster as water may be contaminated.
Help people affected by disasters like the current floods by donating to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund. On those rare occasions when donations exceed Red Cross expenses for a specific disaster, contributions are used to prepare for and serve victims of other disasters. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for disasters and provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance to victims of all disasters. Call 1-800-REDCROSS (1-800-733-2767) or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to the Disaster Relief Fund may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013. Internet users can make a secure online contribution by visiting redcross.
Source
American Red Cross
The Red Cross has more than 200 volunteers and staff and 18 Emergency Response Vehicles (ERVs) in the area with more on standby. Clean up and comfort kits are being distributed and almost 2,000 meals have been served to those affected by the flooding. Officials say early estimates show as many as 3,000 homes may be affected with damages estimated at $250 million.
Red Cross is partnering with Southern Baptist Convention which has one mobile kitchen in operation and another on alert if needed. Other partners include Samaritan's Purse, Georgia Association of Food Banks, Church of Latter Day Saints, Church World Service, and NECHAMA.
"Our focus is on making people as comfortable as possible, feeding them and taking care of their immediate needs," said Joe Becker, Red Cross Disaster Services senior vice president. "We have the workers, equipment and supplies here on the ground to do that with more on standby if needed."
As the waters recede, the Red Cross issues these steps people should take to remain safe as they return to their neighborhoods:
- Return home only when officials have declared the area safe.
- Before entering your home, look outside for loose power lines, damaged gas lines, foundation cracks or other damage.
- Parts of your home may be collapsed or damaged. Approach entrances carefully. See if porch roofs and overhangs have all their supports.
- Watch out for wild animals, especially poisonous snakes that may have come into your home with the floodwater.
- If you smell natural or propane gas or hear a hissing noise, leave immediately and call the fire department.
- If power lines are down outside your home, do not step in puddles or standing water.
- Keep children and pets away from hazardous sites and floodwater.
- Materials such as cleaning products, paint, batteries, contaminated fuel and damaged fuel containers are hazardous. Check with local authorities for assistance with disposal to avoid risk.
- During cleanup, wear protective clothing, including rubber gloves and rubber boots.
- Make sure your food and water are safe. Discard items that have come in contact with floodwater, including canned goods, water bottles, plastic utensils and baby bottle nipples. When in doubt, throw it out!
- Do not use water that could be contaminated to wash dishes, brush teeth, prepare food, wash hands, make ice or make baby formula.
- Contact your local or state public health department for specific recommendations for boiling or treating water in your area after a disaster as water may be contaminated.
Help people affected by disasters like the current floods by donating to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund. On those rare occasions when donations exceed Red Cross expenses for a specific disaster, contributions are used to prepare for and serve victims of other disasters. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for disasters and provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance to victims of all disasters. Call 1-800-REDCROSS (1-800-733-2767) or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to the Disaster Relief Fund may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013. Internet users can make a secure online contribution by visiting redcross.
Source
American Red Cross
Global Health Workforce Alliance Welcomes G8 Commitment For Action On Chronic Health Worker Shortages
The Global Health Workforce Alliance (GHWA) welcomes G8 leaders' commitment in Hokkaido, Japan, to actively address the critical shortages of health workers across the world.
GHWA applauds Japan and the other G8 nations for recognizing that a competent supported health workforce is fundamental to developing robust health systems and to reaching health and development goals. GHWA also welcomes the G8's noting of the importance of the Kampala Declaration and Agenda for Global Action to help guide the response to the health workforce crisis.
While encouraged by the increased commitment shown by the G8, GHWA urges the leaders follow up with increased and new investment to ensure promises on the health workforce are turned into reality.
The world is facing a critical shortage of over 4.3 million health workers, including a lack of at least 1.5 million in Africa. Health workers provide essential, life-saving interventions such as care for pregnant women, safe childbirth, vaccinations and access to services for AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria.
Solving the health workforce crisis will require billions in additional funding. There is no doubt that without prompt action, the shortage will worsen, demand for care will continue to grow and health systems will be weakened even further.
"The G8 has taken significant and necessary steps today. We applaud these, and recent concrete commitments made by the governments of Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States to improve health worker coverage levels across countries in Africa. But there is still an urgent need for continued leadership on this issue," said GHWA Executive Director, Dr Mubashar Sheikh.
" The G8 have stated in Japan that health workers are the cornerstone of reliable health systems. Investment must now follow. Global commitments such as the Millennium Development Goals will remain a dream unless action is taken immediately to increase numbers of health workers and ensure their retention. We cannot afford to wait any longer," he added.
Estimates indicate that G8 countries will need to invest tens of billions of additional US dollars in strengthening the health workforce in all 57 countries identified as having 'critical shortages' [1] if the Millennium Development Goals are to be achieved by 2015. In Africa alone, an estimated US$2.6 billion per year in added funding is needed to train 1.5 million health workers [2]. The costs of employment would be additional to this.
GHWA welcomes the G8 commitment of support for the efforts of the Alliance, partner countries and other partners in helping countries develop robust health workforce plans, and effective health policies. GHWA also strongly supports the G8 emphasis on continued leadership of World Health Organization in the development of a voluntary code of practice regarding ethical recruitment of health workers. All these components are essential elements for progress, as laid out in the Kampala Declaration and Agenda for Global Action.
The Alliance partnership will continue to support countries in their responses to the crisis to achieve the goal of access for all to skilled and motivated health workers as part of a functioning health system.
The Global Health Workforce Alliance is a partnership dedicated to identifying and implementing solutions to the health workforce crisis. It brings together a variety of actors, including national governments, civil society, finance institutions, workers, international agencies, academic institutions and professional associations. Our vision is: access for all to skilled and motivated health workers as part of a functioning health system. The Alliance is hosted and administered by the World Health Organization.
[1] World Health Organization. World Health Report 2006: Working together for health.
Geneva: World Health Organization; 2006
[2] Scaling Up, Saving Lives: Report of the GHWA Task Force on Scaling Up Education and
Training for Health Workers. Geneva: GHWA/World Health Organization; 2008
Global Health Workforce Alliance
GHWA applauds Japan and the other G8 nations for recognizing that a competent supported health workforce is fundamental to developing robust health systems and to reaching health and development goals. GHWA also welcomes the G8's noting of the importance of the Kampala Declaration and Agenda for Global Action to help guide the response to the health workforce crisis.
While encouraged by the increased commitment shown by the G8, GHWA urges the leaders follow up with increased and new investment to ensure promises on the health workforce are turned into reality.
The world is facing a critical shortage of over 4.3 million health workers, including a lack of at least 1.5 million in Africa. Health workers provide essential, life-saving interventions such as care for pregnant women, safe childbirth, vaccinations and access to services for AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria.
Solving the health workforce crisis will require billions in additional funding. There is no doubt that without prompt action, the shortage will worsen, demand for care will continue to grow and health systems will be weakened even further.
"The G8 has taken significant and necessary steps today. We applaud these, and recent concrete commitments made by the governments of Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States to improve health worker coverage levels across countries in Africa. But there is still an urgent need for continued leadership on this issue," said GHWA Executive Director, Dr Mubashar Sheikh.
" The G8 have stated in Japan that health workers are the cornerstone of reliable health systems. Investment must now follow. Global commitments such as the Millennium Development Goals will remain a dream unless action is taken immediately to increase numbers of health workers and ensure their retention. We cannot afford to wait any longer," he added.
Estimates indicate that G8 countries will need to invest tens of billions of additional US dollars in strengthening the health workforce in all 57 countries identified as having 'critical shortages' [1] if the Millennium Development Goals are to be achieved by 2015. In Africa alone, an estimated US$2.6 billion per year in added funding is needed to train 1.5 million health workers [2]. The costs of employment would be additional to this.
GHWA welcomes the G8 commitment of support for the efforts of the Alliance, partner countries and other partners in helping countries develop robust health workforce plans, and effective health policies. GHWA also strongly supports the G8 emphasis on continued leadership of World Health Organization in the development of a voluntary code of practice regarding ethical recruitment of health workers. All these components are essential elements for progress, as laid out in the Kampala Declaration and Agenda for Global Action.
The Alliance partnership will continue to support countries in their responses to the crisis to achieve the goal of access for all to skilled and motivated health workers as part of a functioning health system.
The Global Health Workforce Alliance is a partnership dedicated to identifying and implementing solutions to the health workforce crisis. It brings together a variety of actors, including national governments, civil society, finance institutions, workers, international agencies, academic institutions and professional associations. Our vision is: access for all to skilled and motivated health workers as part of a functioning health system. The Alliance is hosted and administered by the World Health Organization.
[1] World Health Organization. World Health Report 2006: Working together for health.
Geneva: World Health Organization; 2006
[2] Scaling Up, Saving Lives: Report of the GHWA Task Force on Scaling Up Education and
Training for Health Workers. Geneva: GHWA/World Health Organization; 2008
Global Health Workforce Alliance
Children's HeartLink Sends Medical Team To Kuala Lumpur In Malaysia
One in 100 children around the world is born with congenital heart disease. In developed countries, children are diagnosed and treated at birth. Children's HeartLink is reaching out and helping build sustainable pediatric cardiac programs in the underserved regions of the world, giving hundreds and thousands of children the same opportunity.
Beginning April 20, Children's HeartLink, an international medical nonprofit, will be sending a team of volunteers from the United Kingdom on a cardiac medical mission to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from the United Kingdom, to provide advanced training and participate in lifesaving operations on needy children.
The mission to the National Heart Institute (Institut Jantung Negara) includes a group of physicians, nurses, technicians and volunteers from Birmingham Children's Hospital in the United Kingdom led by pediatric cardiac surgeon, David Barron, M.D. The team will be providing valuable training and teaching to the local cardiac medical staff, and screening and treating patients.
The current visit will be the first time Children's HeartLink has supported a full cardiac team visit to the National Heart Institute. Children's HeartLink's overall goal for this mission is to support the collaboration with the IJN to advance their pediatric cardiac program and regional center role; will to treat needy children suffering from heart disease and identify future priorities for assistance. These objectives are reflective of the mission of Children's HeartLink to enhance and sustain pediatric cardiac diagnostic, treatment and prevention services for the benefit of children at risk from heart disease.
"Children's HeartLink is committed to improving the lives of children suffering from heart disease around the world," said John Cushing, International Programs Director of Children's HeartLink. With this new partnership, "Dr. David Barron and his team will be collaborating with Dr. Mohd Azhari Yakub and his team to treat needy children while sharing knowledge and skills for the benefit of more children in the future."
.
About Children's HeartLink
Children's HeartLink, founded in Minneapolis in 1969, is an international medical charity dedicated to the treatment and prevention of heart disease in needy children.
Children's HeartLink works in partnership with hospitals in developing countries to provide surgery, education and training for medical professionals, technical assistance, rheumatic fever prevention programs and donated equipment and supplies.
The goal of Children's HeartLink is to help improve existing cardiac programs in underdeveloped countries so that they are more empowered to care for children in their own region with consistent, quality and sustainable services. Children's HeartLink currently works with hospitals in Kenya, India, China, Costa Rica, Ukraine, Malaysia, Ecuador and South Africa.
childrensheartlink
Beginning April 20, Children's HeartLink, an international medical nonprofit, will be sending a team of volunteers from the United Kingdom on a cardiac medical mission to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from the United Kingdom, to provide advanced training and participate in lifesaving operations on needy children.
The mission to the National Heart Institute (Institut Jantung Negara) includes a group of physicians, nurses, technicians and volunteers from Birmingham Children's Hospital in the United Kingdom led by pediatric cardiac surgeon, David Barron, M.D. The team will be providing valuable training and teaching to the local cardiac medical staff, and screening and treating patients.
The current visit will be the first time Children's HeartLink has supported a full cardiac team visit to the National Heart Institute. Children's HeartLink's overall goal for this mission is to support the collaboration with the IJN to advance their pediatric cardiac program and regional center role; will to treat needy children suffering from heart disease and identify future priorities for assistance. These objectives are reflective of the mission of Children's HeartLink to enhance and sustain pediatric cardiac diagnostic, treatment and prevention services for the benefit of children at risk from heart disease.
"Children's HeartLink is committed to improving the lives of children suffering from heart disease around the world," said John Cushing, International Programs Director of Children's HeartLink. With this new partnership, "Dr. David Barron and his team will be collaborating with Dr. Mohd Azhari Yakub and his team to treat needy children while sharing knowledge and skills for the benefit of more children in the future."
.
About Children's HeartLink
Children's HeartLink, founded in Minneapolis in 1969, is an international medical charity dedicated to the treatment and prevention of heart disease in needy children.
Children's HeartLink works in partnership with hospitals in developing countries to provide surgery, education and training for medical professionals, technical assistance, rheumatic fever prevention programs and donated equipment and supplies.
The goal of Children's HeartLink is to help improve existing cardiac programs in underdeveloped countries so that they are more empowered to care for children in their own region with consistent, quality and sustainable services. Children's HeartLink currently works with hospitals in Kenya, India, China, Costa Rica, Ukraine, Malaysia, Ecuador and South Africa.
childrensheartlink
Survivors Of Hurricane Katrina Experience Psychological Stress, Survey Finds
The percentage of New Orleans residents reporting signs of severe mental illness increased from 11% to 14% between March 2006 and this summer, compared with about 6% before Hurricane Katrina hit more than two years ago, according to a recent Harvard Medical School survey, the Washington Post reports. The survey also found that the percentage of people in New Orleans who reported suicidal thoughts increased from 3% to 8% between March 2006 and the summer of 2007.
According to the Post, "it is not Hurricane Katrina itself but the persistent frustrations of the delayed recovery that are exacting a high psychological toll of people who never before had such troubles," psychiatrists say. Calls to mental health hot lines in the area surged after the hurricane and have remained high, according to organizers. In addition, area psychiatrists are overbooked because of a heightened demand.
Ronald Kessler, a professor of health care policy at Harvard and leader of the study, said, "It's really stunning in juxtaposition to what these kinds of surveys have shown after other disasters, or after people have been raped or mugged." Typically, "people have a lot of trouble the first night and the first month afterward. Then you see a lot of improvement," he said. However, with the rebuilding process in New Orleans going slowly, residents are "in this stage of where there are a lot of people just kind of giving up," Kessler said.
Daphne Glindmeyer, a New Orleans psychiatrist and president of the Louisiana Psychiatric Medical Association, said, "There's more depression, more financial problems, more marital conflict, more thoughts of suicide," adding, "And a lot of it is in people who never had any trouble before" (Whoriskey, Washington Post, 9/23).
Reprinted with kind permission from kaisernetwork. You can view the entire Kaiser Daily Health Policy Report, search the archives, or sign up for email delivery at kaisernetwork/dailyreports/healthpolicy. The Kaiser Daily Health Policy Report is published for kaisernetwork, a free service of The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation© 2005 Advisory Board Company and Kaiser Family Foundation. All rights reserved.
According to the Post, "it is not Hurricane Katrina itself but the persistent frustrations of the delayed recovery that are exacting a high psychological toll of people who never before had such troubles," psychiatrists say. Calls to mental health hot lines in the area surged after the hurricane and have remained high, according to organizers. In addition, area psychiatrists are overbooked because of a heightened demand.
Ronald Kessler, a professor of health care policy at Harvard and leader of the study, said, "It's really stunning in juxtaposition to what these kinds of surveys have shown after other disasters, or after people have been raped or mugged." Typically, "people have a lot of trouble the first night and the first month afterward. Then you see a lot of improvement," he said. However, with the rebuilding process in New Orleans going slowly, residents are "in this stage of where there are a lot of people just kind of giving up," Kessler said.
Daphne Glindmeyer, a New Orleans psychiatrist and president of the Louisiana Psychiatric Medical Association, said, "There's more depression, more financial problems, more marital conflict, more thoughts of suicide," adding, "And a lot of it is in people who never had any trouble before" (Whoriskey, Washington Post, 9/23).
Reprinted with kind permission from kaisernetwork. You can view the entire Kaiser Daily Health Policy Report, search the archives, or sign up for email delivery at kaisernetwork/dailyreports/healthpolicy. The Kaiser Daily Health Policy Report is published for kaisernetwork, a free service of The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation© 2005 Advisory Board Company and Kaiser Family Foundation. All rights reserved.
Macmillan Comments On The Government's Warm Home Discount Consultation Response, UK
Commenting on the Government's Warm Home Discount consultation response, Mike Hobday, Head of Policy at Macmillan Cancer Support, said:
'Sadly, the Government has turned its back on people with a terminal illness living in fuel poverty by failing to help them as part of the new Warm Home Discount scheme.
'While we're pleased the Government has recognised the need for cancer patients on certain benefits to be targeted by energy providers, we are deeply disappointed that they have ignored calls for terminally ill cancer patients to automatically receive the rebate.
'It is incredible that the Government promised to protect the 'poorest and most vulnerable in society' and yet is unwilling to assign money to help people diagnosed with a terminal illness. The Government could have done this, with a cost of less than 4% of the total budget for the scheme.
'Research shows that people with a terminal illness often do not apply for benefits they're entitled to so unless they receive the support automatically, it is highly unlikely that Warm Home Discount will reach them.
'The Government must reconsider their plans and take action to end the misery of thousands of people with a terminal illness who are at home freezing but too scared to put the heating on because of rising energy bills.'
Notes
About the Warm Home Discount scheme
The Department of Energy and Climate Change released its response to the Warm Home Discount consultation today. The Warm Home Discount, a new mandatory social price support scheme, will obligate energy companies to provide a rebate on certain energy customer's fuel bills from April this year. Read the Government's consultation response here.
- Under Government plans, certain groups of Pension Credit recipients will be included in the 'core group' who will receive the ??130 rebate automatically. There will also be a 'broader group' who will be identified by energy companies.
-- The scheme will replace energy provider's existing voluntary social support schemes and will run until 2014/15. In year, one the scheme will be worth ??250m, which will increase to ??310m by year four.
-- We were looking for people with a terminal illness to receive the payment automatically - this meant assigning ??9.6 million of a ??310 million fund, or around 4%, specifically to people with a terminal illness.
-- The Government has failed to meet its target to end fuel poverty in all vulnerable households in England by 2010 and it's likely they won't reach their second target of 2016.
How people living with cancer are affected by fuel poverty
-- Cancer patients have high fuel bills because they are likely to feel the cold more and spend more time at home during treatment or recovery. This increase in bills comes at a time when their household income has usually dropped because they are not working.
-- Macmillan Cancer Support/RS Consulting (2010), Fuel poverty and cancer: survey of people with cancer found:
- Certain groups of cancer patients are particularly vulnerable to fuel poverty. These include those undergoing treatment (25%) and those on certain benefit, such as, housing benefit (47%) and council tax benefit (46%). The research also highlighted that 27% of cancer patients on disability living allowance and 40% with an annual household income of under ??20k are in fuel poverty
- 1 in 4 people with cancer undergoing treatment are fuel poor
-- Macmillan's online survey of 974 people with cancer in the UK (2009) found:
- 7% of those in fuel poverty are on a social tariff
- Seven in ten people under 55 experience a reduced income losing on average 50% (Macmillan Cancer Support
- 59% have used more fuel since their diagnosis
-- According to Macmillan's grants team 41% of people receiving a grant from Macmillan asked for help towards the cost of fuel in 2009.
Source:
Macmillan Cancer Support
'Sadly, the Government has turned its back on people with a terminal illness living in fuel poverty by failing to help them as part of the new Warm Home Discount scheme.
'While we're pleased the Government has recognised the need for cancer patients on certain benefits to be targeted by energy providers, we are deeply disappointed that they have ignored calls for terminally ill cancer patients to automatically receive the rebate.
'It is incredible that the Government promised to protect the 'poorest and most vulnerable in society' and yet is unwilling to assign money to help people diagnosed with a terminal illness. The Government could have done this, with a cost of less than 4% of the total budget for the scheme.
'Research shows that people with a terminal illness often do not apply for benefits they're entitled to so unless they receive the support automatically, it is highly unlikely that Warm Home Discount will reach them.
'The Government must reconsider their plans and take action to end the misery of thousands of people with a terminal illness who are at home freezing but too scared to put the heating on because of rising energy bills.'
Notes
About the Warm Home Discount scheme
The Department of Energy and Climate Change released its response to the Warm Home Discount consultation today. The Warm Home Discount, a new mandatory social price support scheme, will obligate energy companies to provide a rebate on certain energy customer's fuel bills from April this year. Read the Government's consultation response here.
- Under Government plans, certain groups of Pension Credit recipients will be included in the 'core group' who will receive the ??130 rebate automatically. There will also be a 'broader group' who will be identified by energy companies.
-- The scheme will replace energy provider's existing voluntary social support schemes and will run until 2014/15. In year, one the scheme will be worth ??250m, which will increase to ??310m by year four.
-- We were looking for people with a terminal illness to receive the payment automatically - this meant assigning ??9.6 million of a ??310 million fund, or around 4%, specifically to people with a terminal illness.
-- The Government has failed to meet its target to end fuel poverty in all vulnerable households in England by 2010 and it's likely they won't reach their second target of 2016.
How people living with cancer are affected by fuel poverty
-- Cancer patients have high fuel bills because they are likely to feel the cold more and spend more time at home during treatment or recovery. This increase in bills comes at a time when their household income has usually dropped because they are not working.
-- Macmillan Cancer Support/RS Consulting (2010), Fuel poverty and cancer: survey of people with cancer found:
- Certain groups of cancer patients are particularly vulnerable to fuel poverty. These include those undergoing treatment (25%) and those on certain benefit, such as, housing benefit (47%) and council tax benefit (46%). The research also highlighted that 27% of cancer patients on disability living allowance and 40% with an annual household income of under ??20k are in fuel poverty
- 1 in 4 people with cancer undergoing treatment are fuel poor
-- Macmillan's online survey of 974 people with cancer in the UK (2009) found:
- 7% of those in fuel poverty are on a social tariff
- Seven in ten people under 55 experience a reduced income losing on average 50% (Macmillan Cancer Support
- 59% have used more fuel since their diagnosis
-- According to Macmillan's grants team 41% of people receiving a grant from Macmillan asked for help towards the cost of fuel in 2009.
Source:
Macmillan Cancer Support
American Red Cross Prepares For Tropical Storm Fay In Florida
Florida residents listening to Tropical Storm Fay advisories on local and national news are also being informed of American Red Cross activities in their areas. The Red Cross is urging people to register themselves and their loved ones on the Safe and Well website, to let family and friends around the country know of their status. The website can be updated following evacuation or following the storm.
Red Cross workers are also moving both people and supplies into positions throughout Florida, including thousands of ready-to-eat meals and cots and dozens of Emergency Response Vehicles (ERVs). Prior to Tropical Storm Fay making landfall, the Red Cross is preparing its own shelters and supporting other shelters that will be available for people needing to evacuate. Strategically placed warehouses and chapters allow the Red Cross to set up quickly in order to provide for the needs of those affected by storms and hurricanes.
The Safe and Well website is easy to use:
- Visit RedCross, and click on the Safe and Well link
- Click on "List Myself as Safe and Well", enter your pre-disaster address and phone number, and select any of the standard message options.
- If you are concerned about a loved one, click "Search" and enter the person's name and pre-disaster phone number OR address. If they have registered, you will be able to view the messages that they posted.
- If you don't have internet access, you can call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to register yourself and your family. Follow the prompts for disaster information.
Please note that the Safe and Well site safeguards the privacy of the disaster victim. Although these messages will be viewable by friends or family members who conduct a successful search, the site does not reveal a specific location or contact information.
Information being provided by the Red Cross to Florida residents includes the following tips on preparing for hurricanes and evacuations.
Know What to Do When a Hurricane WATCH Is Issued:
- Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or local radio or TV stations for up-to-date storm information.
Know What to Do When a Hurricane WATCH Is Issued (continued):
- Prepare to bring inside any lawn furniture, outdoor decorations or ornaments, trash cans, hanging plants and anything else that can be picked up by the wind.
- Prepare to cover all windows of your home. If shutters have not been installed, use precut plywood as described above. Note: Tape does not prevent windows from breaking, so taping windows is not recommended.
- Fill your car's gas tank.
- Recheck manufactured home tie-downs.
- Check batteries and stock up on canned food, first aid supplies, drinking water and medications.
Prepare a Personal Evacuation Plan:
- Identify ahead of time where you could go if you are told to evacuate. Choose several places--a friend's home in another town, a motel or a shelter.
- Keep the telephone numbers handy of these places as well as a road map of your locality. You may need to take alternative or unfamiliar routes if major roads are closed or clogged.
- Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or local radio or TV stations for evacuation instructions. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
- Take these items with you when evacuating:
-- Prescription medications and medical supplies
-- Bedding and clothing, including sleeping bags and pillows
-- Bottled water, battery-operated radio and extra batteries, first aid kit, flashlight
-- Car keys and maps
-- Documents; including driver's license, Social Security card, proof of residence, insurance policies, wills, deeds, birth and marriage certificates, tax records, etc.
All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people. You can help the victims of thousands of disasters across the country each year, disasters like Tropical Storm Fay, by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund, which enables the Red Cross to provide shelter, food, counseling and other assistance to victims of disaster. The American Red Cross honors donor intent. If you wish to designate your donation to a specific disaster please do so at the time of your donation. Call 1-800-REDCROSS or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to the Disaster Relief Fund may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P. O. Box 37243, Washington, DC20013.
RedCross
Red Cross workers are also moving both people and supplies into positions throughout Florida, including thousands of ready-to-eat meals and cots and dozens of Emergency Response Vehicles (ERVs). Prior to Tropical Storm Fay making landfall, the Red Cross is preparing its own shelters and supporting other shelters that will be available for people needing to evacuate. Strategically placed warehouses and chapters allow the Red Cross to set up quickly in order to provide for the needs of those affected by storms and hurricanes.
The Safe and Well website is easy to use:
- Visit RedCross, and click on the Safe and Well link
- Click on "List Myself as Safe and Well", enter your pre-disaster address and phone number, and select any of the standard message options.
- If you are concerned about a loved one, click "Search" and enter the person's name and pre-disaster phone number OR address. If they have registered, you will be able to view the messages that they posted.
- If you don't have internet access, you can call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to register yourself and your family. Follow the prompts for disaster information.
Please note that the Safe and Well site safeguards the privacy of the disaster victim. Although these messages will be viewable by friends or family members who conduct a successful search, the site does not reveal a specific location or contact information.
Information being provided by the Red Cross to Florida residents includes the following tips on preparing for hurricanes and evacuations.
Know What to Do When a Hurricane WATCH Is Issued:
- Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or local radio or TV stations for up-to-date storm information.
Know What to Do When a Hurricane WATCH Is Issued (continued):
- Prepare to bring inside any lawn furniture, outdoor decorations or ornaments, trash cans, hanging plants and anything else that can be picked up by the wind.
- Prepare to cover all windows of your home. If shutters have not been installed, use precut plywood as described above. Note: Tape does not prevent windows from breaking, so taping windows is not recommended.
- Fill your car's gas tank.
- Recheck manufactured home tie-downs.
- Check batteries and stock up on canned food, first aid supplies, drinking water and medications.
Prepare a Personal Evacuation Plan:
- Identify ahead of time where you could go if you are told to evacuate. Choose several places--a friend's home in another town, a motel or a shelter.
- Keep the telephone numbers handy of these places as well as a road map of your locality. You may need to take alternative or unfamiliar routes if major roads are closed or clogged.
- Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or local radio or TV stations for evacuation instructions. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
- Take these items with you when evacuating:
-- Prescription medications and medical supplies
-- Bedding and clothing, including sleeping bags and pillows
-- Bottled water, battery-operated radio and extra batteries, first aid kit, flashlight
-- Car keys and maps
-- Documents; including driver's license, Social Security card, proof of residence, insurance policies, wills, deeds, birth and marriage certificates, tax records, etc.
All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people. You can help the victims of thousands of disasters across the country each year, disasters like Tropical Storm Fay, by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund, which enables the Red Cross to provide shelter, food, counseling and other assistance to victims of disaster. The American Red Cross honors donor intent. If you wish to designate your donation to a specific disaster please do so at the time of your donation. Call 1-800-REDCROSS or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to the Disaster Relief Fund may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P. O. Box 37243, Washington, DC20013.
RedCross
Procter & Gamble And World Vision Equip And Empower Zimbabweans In Fight Against Cholera
As Zimbabwe continues to confront a cholera epidemic tied to failing water and sanitation infrastructure, a new World Vision project supported by the Procter & Gamble (NYSE: PG) Children's Safe Drinking Water Program is underway, providing Zimbabweans with the tools and training necessary to protect themselves, their families and their communities.
The large-scale, community-driven program, funded by a $200,000 grant from P&G, will enable World Vision staff and volunteers to distribute two and a half million PUR(TM) Purifier of Water packets benefiting 10,000 households and an estimated 250,000 people. Each PUR(TM) Purifier of Water packet, a powdered product that reduces parasites, bacteria and other contaminants found in water, effectively transforms up to 10 liters of contaminated water into clean, purified water within minutes. Zimbabweans in affected areas will learn how to effectively use this product as well as receive cholera prevention, response and preparedness training.
The relief work will be concentrated in the regions of Bulawayo, Mashonaland West, Mashonaland East, and Matabeleland South, all of which are suffering high rates of cholera infection and death. In addition to supporting its current work involving medical personnel responding to the cholera epidemic, World Vision will deploy two mobile units to distribute the PUR packets and provide information and training to program participants. A latter part of the project will involve the repair and maintenance of damaged sewage systems in the region to prevent the further spread of the disease through drinking water.
The project will be driven by specially-trained, Zimbabwean volunteers, who will deliver their services and then expand the critically-needed training more broadly to community members. The program design is especially important considering that a large number of health care professionals have left Zimbabwe because of the failed infrastructure and lack of pay.
"With an average of one new cholera case in Zimbabwe per minute, a rapid response is critical and we are very grateful to P&G for this partnership," said Keith Kall, executive director of corporate development for World Vision. "Lives will be saved due to their generosity, and many, many Zimbabweans will be armed with new knowledge to protect themselves and their children in the midst of very high-risk circumstances."
"It's particularly important that during this time of financial crisis we continue to think about those most in need and do what we can to help," said Greg Allgood, PhD, director for the P&G Children's Safe Drinking Water Program, the signature program of P&G's Live, Learn and Thrive(TM) Initiative. "World Vision has a particularly effective plan to help save lives in Zimbabwe and will provide more than 50 days of clean drinking water to a child for every dollar donated."
The cholera epidemic in Zimbabwe, having already claimed more than 3,000 lives and with more than 54,000 reported cases is shifting rapidly to rural areas, World Vision reported in January. Rural areas had previously recorded low cases of the epidemic since the first reported case last August.
About World Vision
World Vision is a Christian relief and development organization dedicated to helping children and their communities worldwide reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty. World Vision serves the world's poor regardless of a person's religion, race, ethnicity, or gender. For more information, visit worldvision.
About Procter & Gamble
Three billion times a day, P&G brands touch the lives of people around the world. The company has one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality, leadership brands. The P&G community includes approximately 138,000 employees working in over 80 countries worldwide. In these countries and beyond, P&G is committed to improving lives for children in need, ages 0-13, through its global corporate cause, Live, Learn and Thrive and its Children's Safe Drinking Water Program. The Children's Safe Drinking Water Program and the water technology by PUR are working together to help prevent water-related diseases by providing clean drinking water to children in developing countries. For more information about PUR(TM) water purification technology and to see how it works, visit csdw. Please visit pg for the latest news and in-depth information about P&G, its brands, and Live, Learn and Thrive.
Procter & Gamble
pg
The large-scale, community-driven program, funded by a $200,000 grant from P&G, will enable World Vision staff and volunteers to distribute two and a half million PUR(TM) Purifier of Water packets benefiting 10,000 households and an estimated 250,000 people. Each PUR(TM) Purifier of Water packet, a powdered product that reduces parasites, bacteria and other contaminants found in water, effectively transforms up to 10 liters of contaminated water into clean, purified water within minutes. Zimbabweans in affected areas will learn how to effectively use this product as well as receive cholera prevention, response and preparedness training.
The relief work will be concentrated in the regions of Bulawayo, Mashonaland West, Mashonaland East, and Matabeleland South, all of which are suffering high rates of cholera infection and death. In addition to supporting its current work involving medical personnel responding to the cholera epidemic, World Vision will deploy two mobile units to distribute the PUR packets and provide information and training to program participants. A latter part of the project will involve the repair and maintenance of damaged sewage systems in the region to prevent the further spread of the disease through drinking water.
The project will be driven by specially-trained, Zimbabwean volunteers, who will deliver their services and then expand the critically-needed training more broadly to community members. The program design is especially important considering that a large number of health care professionals have left Zimbabwe because of the failed infrastructure and lack of pay.
"With an average of one new cholera case in Zimbabwe per minute, a rapid response is critical and we are very grateful to P&G for this partnership," said Keith Kall, executive director of corporate development for World Vision. "Lives will be saved due to their generosity, and many, many Zimbabweans will be armed with new knowledge to protect themselves and their children in the midst of very high-risk circumstances."
"It's particularly important that during this time of financial crisis we continue to think about those most in need and do what we can to help," said Greg Allgood, PhD, director for the P&G Children's Safe Drinking Water Program, the signature program of P&G's Live, Learn and Thrive(TM) Initiative. "World Vision has a particularly effective plan to help save lives in Zimbabwe and will provide more than 50 days of clean drinking water to a child for every dollar donated."
The cholera epidemic in Zimbabwe, having already claimed more than 3,000 lives and with more than 54,000 reported cases is shifting rapidly to rural areas, World Vision reported in January. Rural areas had previously recorded low cases of the epidemic since the first reported case last August.
About World Vision
World Vision is a Christian relief and development organization dedicated to helping children and their communities worldwide reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty. World Vision serves the world's poor regardless of a person's religion, race, ethnicity, or gender. For more information, visit worldvision.
About Procter & Gamble
Three billion times a day, P&G brands touch the lives of people around the world. The company has one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality, leadership brands. The P&G community includes approximately 138,000 employees working in over 80 countries worldwide. In these countries and beyond, P&G is committed to improving lives for children in need, ages 0-13, through its global corporate cause, Live, Learn and Thrive and its Children's Safe Drinking Water Program. The Children's Safe Drinking Water Program and the water technology by PUR are working together to help prevent water-related diseases by providing clean drinking water to children in developing countries. For more information about PUR(TM) water purification technology and to see how it works, visit csdw. Please visit pg for the latest news and in-depth information about P&G, its brands, and Live, Learn and Thrive.
Procter & Gamble
pg
Huge AIDS Program Approved By House Of Representatives
President George Bush had initially proposed doubling the program to fight AIDS in Africa and other parts of the world to $30 billion. Then the House, led by Democrats, raised it to $50 billion. The House of Representatives yesterday passed a bill which will more than triple spending to combat AIDS abroad - the vote, a bi-partisan compromise, was passed, 308 to 116. Democrats voted unanimously in favor.
The House passed a bill for $50 billion in funding to combat AIDS, TB (tuberculosis) and malaria over the coming five years - a huge jump from the initial $15 billion. Now a bill is making its way to the Senate.
The White House called on the House to pass the bill
"Today, the full House is scheduled to consider bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. During the President and Mrs. Bush's trip to Africa in February, we saw firsthand this program's positive impact on people's lives across Africa. This bill retains the important policy principles that have made PEPFAR such a success, and we strongly urge Members to support its passage. We commend the House for taking this critical step in the reauthorization process and encourage Congress to send a bill to the President's desk so that America can continue this incredibly successful program."
- White House Press Secretary Dana Perino, 4/2/08
In 2003 President George Bush launched PEPFAR (President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief). It committed $15 billion over a period of five years to fight global HIV/AIDS - the largest international health initiative in history to combat a single disease. Then in 2007 Bush asked Congress to double the original funding. The program provides support and drugs in 12 African countries (Botswana, Cote d'Ivoire, Ethiopia, Guyana, Haiti, Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Vietnam, and Zambia) as well as Vietnam, Guyana and Haiti. This new bill adds another 14 countries in the Caribbean basin, plus three more African countries (Lesotho, Malawi and Swaziland).
Those opposed to the Bill say it is too much money, especially when there are pressing domestic needs which need to be tackled.
Democrats did not agree that about one third of the program's money is dedicated to sexual abstinence education. They said would prefer to see "balanced funding" for abstinence, fidelity and condom programs, and the bill was reworded to reflect this.
Of the $50 billion, $9 billion would be used to combat TB and malaria - two diseases which commonly infect HIV-positive people in the African continent. The $9 billion would also underwrite food supplements for individuals living with HIV/AIDS. Women who became widowed as a result of AIDS, or became ostracized because they were HIV-positive, would be eligible for loans.
Of the remaining $41 billion, which would be allocated specifically for HIV/AIDS, up to $2 billion would be designated for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. Funds would also be released to train approximately 140,000 new health care workers.
PEPFAR aims to double the number of people receiving antiretroviral drugs to 3 million. It also aims to prevent 12 million new HIV cases and provide care for 12 million patients.
pepfar
Written by -
The House passed a bill for $50 billion in funding to combat AIDS, TB (tuberculosis) and malaria over the coming five years - a huge jump from the initial $15 billion. Now a bill is making its way to the Senate.
The White House called on the House to pass the bill
"Today, the full House is scheduled to consider bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. During the President and Mrs. Bush's trip to Africa in February, we saw firsthand this program's positive impact on people's lives across Africa. This bill retains the important policy principles that have made PEPFAR such a success, and we strongly urge Members to support its passage. We commend the House for taking this critical step in the reauthorization process and encourage Congress to send a bill to the President's desk so that America can continue this incredibly successful program."
- White House Press Secretary Dana Perino, 4/2/08
In 2003 President George Bush launched PEPFAR (President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief). It committed $15 billion over a period of five years to fight global HIV/AIDS - the largest international health initiative in history to combat a single disease. Then in 2007 Bush asked Congress to double the original funding. The program provides support and drugs in 12 African countries (Botswana, Cote d'Ivoire, Ethiopia, Guyana, Haiti, Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Vietnam, and Zambia) as well as Vietnam, Guyana and Haiti. This new bill adds another 14 countries in the Caribbean basin, plus three more African countries (Lesotho, Malawi and Swaziland).
Those opposed to the Bill say it is too much money, especially when there are pressing domestic needs which need to be tackled.
Democrats did not agree that about one third of the program's money is dedicated to sexual abstinence education. They said would prefer to see "balanced funding" for abstinence, fidelity and condom programs, and the bill was reworded to reflect this.
Of the $50 billion, $9 billion would be used to combat TB and malaria - two diseases which commonly infect HIV-positive people in the African continent. The $9 billion would also underwrite food supplements for individuals living with HIV/AIDS. Women who became widowed as a result of AIDS, or became ostracized because they were HIV-positive, would be eligible for loans.
Of the remaining $41 billion, which would be allocated specifically for HIV/AIDS, up to $2 billion would be designated for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. Funds would also be released to train approximately 140,000 new health care workers.
PEPFAR aims to double the number of people receiving antiretroviral drugs to 3 million. It also aims to prevent 12 million new HIV cases and provide care for 12 million patients.
pepfar
Written by -
World Food Programme Sends Food To Georgian Town Of Gori
In response to an urgent request from the Georgian Government,
the
United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) today dispatched a truckload of
food to the conflict-affected town of Gori, where it has been unable to
reach people due to insecurity.
"We understand the food situation in Gori has now become desperate," said
WFP Georgia Country Director, Lola Castro. "We are providing the
Government
with high energy biscuits (HEB) and sugar to meet the urgent needs of the
most vulnerable displaced people in the town." She added that World Vision
International was sending canned meat, buckwheat, pasta and tea with the
same consignment.
Last Wednesday, WFP airlifted 34 metric tons of the highly nutritious HEBs
- which require no preparation - into Georgia from the UN Humanitarian
Response Depot (UNHRD) in Brindisi, Italy. The HEBs, donated by the
European Union, have already been distributed to some 18,000 people in and
around the capital, Tbilisi.
Another flight from Brindisi arrived in Tbilisi today with 58 tons of high
energy biscuits, donated by USAID.
WFP has identified bakeries near areas where internally displaced people
have concentrated, and the agency is supplying wheat flour to make bread
for distribution to the hungry. It is also providing food for soup
kitchens, set up to enable people - many of whom have no access to cooking
facilities - to eat hot food.
So far WFP has provided food assistance to some 34,000 people displaced by
the conflict.
WFP is also playing a leading role in coordinating food assistance and
will
start offering logistical support to other humanitarian organisations,
drawing on capacity from its existing operation in the country. Before the
crisis erupted, WFP was providing food to more than 212,000 people, mainly
poor rural communities, as well as primary schoolchildren, tuberculosis
patients and people living with HIV/AIDS.
Tens of thousands of people have fled South Ossetia since the
conflict
started a week ago. Some 30,000 of them are estimated to have crossed
the
border into North Ossetia, part of the Russian Federation. WFP
is
monitoring the situation from its office in the North Ossetian
capital,
Vladikavkaz.
The Russian Government is providing the displaced population with
humanitarian assistance, including food aid. Through its own on-site
visits WFP has witnessed that Russia's aid effort is coming through
effectively in North Ossetia and that the needs of the displaced
population
are being met. However, WFP remains ready to offer assistance, if
required.
The WFP Country Office in Moscow is in regular contact with the Ministry
of
Civil Defense, Emergencies and Elimination of Consequences of Natural
Disasters (EMERCOM of Russia) to liaise on the substantial aid effort that
is taking place in the Russian Federation to assist the conflict affected
population from South Ossetia.
WFP is the world's largest humanitarian agency and the UN's frontline
agency for hunger solutions. This year, WFP plans to feed around 90
million
people in 80 countries.
wfp
the
United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) today dispatched a truckload of
food to the conflict-affected town of Gori, where it has been unable to
reach people due to insecurity.
"We understand the food situation in Gori has now become desperate," said
WFP Georgia Country Director, Lola Castro. "We are providing the
Government
with high energy biscuits (HEB) and sugar to meet the urgent needs of the
most vulnerable displaced people in the town." She added that World Vision
International was sending canned meat, buckwheat, pasta and tea with the
same consignment.
Last Wednesday, WFP airlifted 34 metric tons of the highly nutritious HEBs
- which require no preparation - into Georgia from the UN Humanitarian
Response Depot (UNHRD) in Brindisi, Italy. The HEBs, donated by the
European Union, have already been distributed to some 18,000 people in and
around the capital, Tbilisi.
Another flight from Brindisi arrived in Tbilisi today with 58 tons of high
energy biscuits, donated by USAID.
WFP has identified bakeries near areas where internally displaced people
have concentrated, and the agency is supplying wheat flour to make bread
for distribution to the hungry. It is also providing food for soup
kitchens, set up to enable people - many of whom have no access to cooking
facilities - to eat hot food.
So far WFP has provided food assistance to some 34,000 people displaced by
the conflict.
WFP is also playing a leading role in coordinating food assistance and
will
start offering logistical support to other humanitarian organisations,
drawing on capacity from its existing operation in the country. Before the
crisis erupted, WFP was providing food to more than 212,000 people, mainly
poor rural communities, as well as primary schoolchildren, tuberculosis
patients and people living with HIV/AIDS.
Tens of thousands of people have fled South Ossetia since the
conflict
started a week ago. Some 30,000 of them are estimated to have crossed
the
border into North Ossetia, part of the Russian Federation. WFP
is
monitoring the situation from its office in the North Ossetian
capital,
Vladikavkaz.
The Russian Government is providing the displaced population with
humanitarian assistance, including food aid. Through its own on-site
visits WFP has witnessed that Russia's aid effort is coming through
effectively in North Ossetia and that the needs of the displaced
population
are being met. However, WFP remains ready to offer assistance, if
required.
The WFP Country Office in Moscow is in regular contact with the Ministry
of
Civil Defense, Emergencies and Elimination of Consequences of Natural
Disasters (EMERCOM of Russia) to liaise on the substantial aid effort that
is taking place in the Russian Federation to assist the conflict affected
population from South Ossetia.
WFP is the world's largest humanitarian agency and the UN's frontline
agency for hunger solutions. This year, WFP plans to feed around 90
million
people in 80 countries.
wfp
MSF asks armed groups to respect civilians, Haiti
As violent attacks intensify and spread in Haiti's capital Port au Prince, the international medical humanitarian organization Doctors Without Borders/M?decins Sans Fronti?res (MSF) today called on all armed groups in the city to respect the safety of civilians and allow those wounded during clashes immediate access to emergency medical care.
Since MSF opened a trauma center in Port au Prince in December 2004, medical and surgical teams have treated more than 3,100 patients - 1,112, or more than one-third, for violence-related injuries, including 861 gunshot victims, 126 for machete or knife wounds, 67 for beatings, and 40 for rape. Half of those treated for such injuries are women, children, or elderly.
"It is appalling that civilians continue to bear the brunt of increasing violence in Port au Prince during these past months," said Ali Besnaci, the Head of Mission for MSF in Haiti. "We're treating children as young as 4 and women in their 70s for gunshot wounds. We recently had nearly 30 gunshot victims in one day. And we know that many of those injured are either afraid of or prevented from getting the treatment they need. Some patients come several days after being shot. This is simply unacceptable."
People have been shot and killed, both deliberately and unintentionally, by all of the armed factions fighting in the seaside slums, or "quartiers populaires," of Port au Prince. Some have said they were wounded during operations conducted by the Haitian National Police (HNP) and the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH).
"The number of gunshot victims we are treating has been increasing dramatically these past few weeks," said Besnaci. "And more and more patients have devastating multiple wounds caused by exploding bullets. Civilians in many parts of Port au Prince are struggling just to survive. They fear leaving their homes because it could cost them their lives. Everyday, people throughout the city tell us that they have never experienced such levels of violence before."
In December 2004, MSF opened the 56-bed trauma center at St. Joseph's Hospital in Port au Prince to provide free emergency medical and surgical services to the growing number of people injured by violent acts who had little or no access to care. MSF also offers post-surgical physiotherapy at a nearby rehabilitation center. MSF has been present in Haiti since 1991, mainly providing assistance in the country's provinces or in response to natural disasters, and today also provides primary and maternal health care in Petite Riviere in Artibonite Department and in the Decayette area of Port au Prince.
doctorswithoutborders
Since MSF opened a trauma center in Port au Prince in December 2004, medical and surgical teams have treated more than 3,100 patients - 1,112, or more than one-third, for violence-related injuries, including 861 gunshot victims, 126 for machete or knife wounds, 67 for beatings, and 40 for rape. Half of those treated for such injuries are women, children, or elderly.
"It is appalling that civilians continue to bear the brunt of increasing violence in Port au Prince during these past months," said Ali Besnaci, the Head of Mission for MSF in Haiti. "We're treating children as young as 4 and women in their 70s for gunshot wounds. We recently had nearly 30 gunshot victims in one day. And we know that many of those injured are either afraid of or prevented from getting the treatment they need. Some patients come several days after being shot. This is simply unacceptable."
People have been shot and killed, both deliberately and unintentionally, by all of the armed factions fighting in the seaside slums, or "quartiers populaires," of Port au Prince. Some have said they were wounded during operations conducted by the Haitian National Police (HNP) and the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH).
"The number of gunshot victims we are treating has been increasing dramatically these past few weeks," said Besnaci. "And more and more patients have devastating multiple wounds caused by exploding bullets. Civilians in many parts of Port au Prince are struggling just to survive. They fear leaving their homes because it could cost them their lives. Everyday, people throughout the city tell us that they have never experienced such levels of violence before."
In December 2004, MSF opened the 56-bed trauma center at St. Joseph's Hospital in Port au Prince to provide free emergency medical and surgical services to the growing number of people injured by violent acts who had little or no access to care. MSF also offers post-surgical physiotherapy at a nearby rehabilitation center. MSF has been present in Haiti since 1991, mainly providing assistance in the country's provinces or in response to natural disasters, and today also provides primary and maternal health care in Petite Riviere in Artibonite Department and in the Decayette area of Port au Prince.
doctorswithoutborders
American Red Cross Products By Et??n Help Families Prepare For Hurricanes And Other Emergencies
Et??n Corporation, a leading emergency preparedness company and creator of green-powered electronics, urges families to do more than cross their fingers. The American Red Cross by Et??n products provide the essentials of light, information, and energy, helping families plan ahead for unexpected emergencies.
A recent American Red Cross survey reported that 82 percent of Americans are not prepared for an emergency, despite the fact that more than half of the population has experienced at least one significant emergency that left them without power for three days or more. While 89 percent of those surveyed believe it is important to be prepared, it is clear that far fewer are ready for an emergency. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forecasting higher storms and hurricanes than previous years.
The collection of American Red Cross emergency radios by Et??n are self-powered and can be charged by four different sources including dynamo/hand crank, alkaline batteries, AC adapter or solar power. Each radio provides AM/FM radio and all seven National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weatherband channels to provide the latest emergency weather information and public alerts. In addition, the emergency radios have an integrated LED flashlight and a USB port for charging cell phones via hand-crank.
The American Red Cross line by Et??n also includes several compact preparedness devices - the Blackout Buddy, ClipRay and Aluminator Flashlight Series. The Blackout Buddy emergency LED flashlight plugs into and charges from a wall socket, doubling as a nightlight while charging. When the power fails, the light engages, making it easy to locate and use in any situation. The ClipRay LED flashlight features a hand-crank and USB cell phone charger, plus a carabiner clip for hands-free convenience. The line is rounded out by the Aluminator Flashlight Series, which are constructed from high-grade aluminum, splash-proof and produce up to 120 lumens of light from the CREE LEDs.
"We value our long-standing partnership with the American Red Cross and are passionate about helping families prepare for disaster," says John Smith, Vice President and Chief of Staff at Et??n Corporation. "We are proud to be supporting the mission of the American Red Cross and, through our joint efforts, look to help American families become better prepared for unexpected emergencies."
The American Red Cross products by Et??n are available now at select retailers and etoncorp. Et??n Corporation contributes a portion of every unit sold to support the general mission of the American Red Cross.
Source
Et??n Corporation
American Red Cross
A recent American Red Cross survey reported that 82 percent of Americans are not prepared for an emergency, despite the fact that more than half of the population has experienced at least one significant emergency that left them without power for three days or more. While 89 percent of those surveyed believe it is important to be prepared, it is clear that far fewer are ready for an emergency. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forecasting higher storms and hurricanes than previous years.
The collection of American Red Cross emergency radios by Et??n are self-powered and can be charged by four different sources including dynamo/hand crank, alkaline batteries, AC adapter or solar power. Each radio provides AM/FM radio and all seven National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weatherband channels to provide the latest emergency weather information and public alerts. In addition, the emergency radios have an integrated LED flashlight and a USB port for charging cell phones via hand-crank.
The American Red Cross line by Et??n also includes several compact preparedness devices - the Blackout Buddy, ClipRay and Aluminator Flashlight Series. The Blackout Buddy emergency LED flashlight plugs into and charges from a wall socket, doubling as a nightlight while charging. When the power fails, the light engages, making it easy to locate and use in any situation. The ClipRay LED flashlight features a hand-crank and USB cell phone charger, plus a carabiner clip for hands-free convenience. The line is rounded out by the Aluminator Flashlight Series, which are constructed from high-grade aluminum, splash-proof and produce up to 120 lumens of light from the CREE LEDs.
"We value our long-standing partnership with the American Red Cross and are passionate about helping families prepare for disaster," says John Smith, Vice President and Chief of Staff at Et??n Corporation. "We are proud to be supporting the mission of the American Red Cross and, through our joint efforts, look to help American families become better prepared for unexpected emergencies."
The American Red Cross products by Et??n are available now at select retailers and etoncorp. Et??n Corporation contributes a portion of every unit sold to support the general mission of the American Red Cross.
Source
Et??n Corporation
American Red Cross
Hundreds Across The South Still Seek Safety In Red Cross Shelters
More than 1,100 Red Cross workers are helping those whose lives were turned upside down after this week's flooding and tornadoes in Tennessee, Kentucky, Mississippi, Alabama and Arkansas.
Clean-up efforts are underway and Red Cross teams from 37 different states are providing food, a safe place to stay, clean-up items, toiletries, blankets, shovels, rakes, gloves, trash bags and other necessities.
Damage is widespread with people needing everything from immediate emergency assistance to help with the clean-up, according to Joe Becker, senior vice president of Disaster Services for the Red Cross. "This is a tough response and people have been through a lot," Becker said. "This operation is going to go on for weeks. It's our job to make sure people's needs are met."
Hundreds are still in Red Cross shelters, seeking food and a safe place to stay. If someone needs information about Red Cross shelters, they can visit redcross and click on the "Find a Shelter" link.
The Red Cross has already served more than 100,000 meals and snacks to people across the five states. Two Southern Baptist kitchens are in Tennessee, in Nashville and Jackson, with a combined capacity of serving 10,000 meals a day. More than 45 Red Cross response vehicles are in the affected areas with more on the way, delivering food and clean-up items throughout the damaged neighborhoods.
Thousands are still without power. Roadways and bridges are destroyed. People returning to their homes are finding they've lost everything. Tennessee is the hardest hit. In Nashville alone, officials estimate this week's flooding caused over $1 billion in damages. Tennessee Governor Phil Gredesen has declared 52 of the state's 95 counties as disaster areas.
If you would like to help, there are three ways that people can make a donation to the Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund: Visit redcross to donate online, call 1-800-REDCROSS, or make a $10 donation by texting REDCROSS to 90999.
The Red Cross urges all who have been affected to use caution when returning to their homes:
- Avoid downed power lines and smell for gas when entering your home or office. Wear protective clothing like rubber gloves and boots when cleaning your home.
- Dispose of food, beverages and medicine exposed to floodwaters and mud, including canned goods, capped bottles and sealed containers. Water may not be safe to drink, clean with, or bathe in after an emergency such as a flood. Use only bottled, boiled, or treated water until your water supply is tested and found safe.
- Mold can cause asthma attacks or irritate your eyes, nose and skin. Remove all items that have been wet for more than 48 hours. To clean hard surfaces, use commercial cleaning products or a bleach solution of 1 cup of bleach to 1 gallon of water.
Source
American Red Cross
Clean-up efforts are underway and Red Cross teams from 37 different states are providing food, a safe place to stay, clean-up items, toiletries, blankets, shovels, rakes, gloves, trash bags and other necessities.
Damage is widespread with people needing everything from immediate emergency assistance to help with the clean-up, according to Joe Becker, senior vice president of Disaster Services for the Red Cross. "This is a tough response and people have been through a lot," Becker said. "This operation is going to go on for weeks. It's our job to make sure people's needs are met."
Hundreds are still in Red Cross shelters, seeking food and a safe place to stay. If someone needs information about Red Cross shelters, they can visit redcross and click on the "Find a Shelter" link.
The Red Cross has already served more than 100,000 meals and snacks to people across the five states. Two Southern Baptist kitchens are in Tennessee, in Nashville and Jackson, with a combined capacity of serving 10,000 meals a day. More than 45 Red Cross response vehicles are in the affected areas with more on the way, delivering food and clean-up items throughout the damaged neighborhoods.
Thousands are still without power. Roadways and bridges are destroyed. People returning to their homes are finding they've lost everything. Tennessee is the hardest hit. In Nashville alone, officials estimate this week's flooding caused over $1 billion in damages. Tennessee Governor Phil Gredesen has declared 52 of the state's 95 counties as disaster areas.
If you would like to help, there are three ways that people can make a donation to the Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund: Visit redcross to donate online, call 1-800-REDCROSS, or make a $10 donation by texting REDCROSS to 90999.
The Red Cross urges all who have been affected to use caution when returning to their homes:
- Avoid downed power lines and smell for gas when entering your home or office. Wear protective clothing like rubber gloves and boots when cleaning your home.
- Dispose of food, beverages and medicine exposed to floodwaters and mud, including canned goods, capped bottles and sealed containers. Water may not be safe to drink, clean with, or bathe in after an emergency such as a flood. Use only bottled, boiled, or treated water until your water supply is tested and found safe.
- Mold can cause asthma attacks or irritate your eyes, nose and skin. Remove all items that have been wet for more than 48 hours. To clean hard surfaces, use commercial cleaning products or a bleach solution of 1 cup of bleach to 1 gallon of water.
Source
American Red Cross
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