Aid in Action
USAID responds quickly to assist earthquake victims
Funds allocated for urgent medical care, water and sanitation, and food distribution
Yogyakarta |
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
)/Images/Photo.1153.aspx)
USAID/ Basic Human Services Program
Relief Supplies are being transferred to victims of the earthquake in Bantul. USAID provided $1 million to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and its local partner, the Indonesian Red Cross/Palang Merah Indonesia (PMI).
Within hours after a powerful earthquake shook Yogyakarta and Central Java, USAID allocated funds for urgent medical care, water and sanitation, and food distribution.
By tapping into its rich network of implementing partners, NGOs and community organizations working in the Yogyakarta region, USAID is responding to immediate needs while building a solid foundation for launching a larger coordinated U.S. Government initiative.
USAID is supporting the International Medical Corps’ emergency medical care program, Ambulan 118, to mobilize Indonesian surgeons and other emergency medical personnel.
USAID’s Environmental Services Program (ESP) is providing community-based health and hygiene programs in Bantul, begun just days after the earthquake. The program has also conducted initial reviews of water and sanitation systems in damaged areas and hospitals. By developing base maps, the program is able to assist in the coordination of relief operations more effectively.
One day after the earthquake, USAID’s implementing partner, Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs (JHU-CCP), distributed 40,000 bottles of safe water treatment product, Air RahMat, to UNICEF, CARE and other NGOs in the earthquake-effected areas. JHU-CCP also provided training to NGOs and local community organizations on effective use of the product.
USAID has provided tents and supplies to establish temporary schools in Klaten, a heavily impacted area. With this support, the schools may conduct the national exams required for elementary students.
USAID’s support and guidance to community service organizations has resulted in creative local efforts. With assistance, the staff of a popular local restaurant, Hugo’s Café, organized to cook and deliver nutritious meals to over 200 families who lost homes and livelihoods.