Save the Children sends international emergency response expert to Canterbury
(6 September 2010) Save the Children is assessing the situation for children in the Canterbury region following Saturday’s 7.1 magnitude earthquake and the continuing aftershocks.
Save the Children’s Chris Cattaway will be consulting with schools and child care centres about how best to support children and families affected by the earthquake, particularly those who may be experiencing trauma or anxiety.
Mr Cattaway has extensive experience in emergency response relief and has worked in a number of countries including Myanmar following Cyclone Nargis, and in relief efforts following earthquakes in Iran and India.
“Many children and families are facing uncertainty and we want to support them. I’ve seen a number of media interviews with families affected by the earthquake and it’s evident that some are suffering from trauma and shock, and there may be many more affected in the future,” says Liz Gibbs CEO of Save the Children New Zealand.
“Save the Children is experienced in dealing with emergencies and has expertise in supporting children and their families dealing with the trauma of a disaster. Children are often the most vulnerable in emergencies and we are looking at where we can be most valuable in helping children and their families during this challenging time,” says Ms Gibbs.
Save the Children has made an immediate donation of $10,000 to Bob Parker’s Mayoral Emergency Fund from its Children’s Emergency Fund which was set up to provide immediate funding in times of crisis.
The Children’s Emergency Fund was set up at during the Haiti Earthquake and has also sent emergency funds to help the children and families affected by the Pakistan floods.
Donations for the Canterbury earthquake can be made to Save the Children in several ways, please visit www.savethechildren.org.nz for more information.
Media enquiries
For more information and set up interviews with Chris Cattaway please contact: Susana Lei’ataua Communications Advisor Save the Children New Zealand
Tel: 029-770-1982 or +64 4 381-7573 or email: Susana@savethechildren.org.nz