An update on Nepal from ShelterBox USA

Posted 
on Apr 28, 2015
 
Good afternoon DG Loretta,
 
As a Rotarian myself, it was hard to watch the news when a massive 7.8 earthquake struck in Nepal.  My college roommate is from Katmandu and one of the first things I did was reach out to ensure his family’s safety.  While so many watch with horror of the devastation, we can find solace that Rotary will be there, both now in the immediate aftermath and for years to come to help families affected by this tragedy.  I wanted to share a bit about ShelterBox’s efforts.  As a Rotary International Project Partner, we take pride in assisting Rotarians to play a part in the immediate aftermath of a disaster.
 
Here’s what we know:
 
Key points:
  • The largest tremor was 7.8 and 15km deep.
  • Since then, several aftershocks have taken place, ranging from 5 to 6.7 in magnitude.
  • More than 3,600 people are reported to have died and an estimated 6,500 have sustained injury following the earthquake.
  • The quake occurred between the major cities of Kathmandu and Pokhara, with tremors felt as far away as Delhi in India.
  • Current conditions are reported to be quiet with very little electricity or lighting.
  • There is widespread fear as tremors occurred again on Monday and further seismic activity is expected.
  • Worse conditions are expected in the surrounding rural areas as an estimated 70% of all structures have been destroyed.
  • Weather conditions will soon compound the situation with incoming rain, thunderstorms and snow in high altitudes.
 
Our Response:
  • We are working closely with Rotary on the ground as we’ve deployed there quite often.
  • A ShelterBox response team is on the ground in Nepal gathering a first-hand idea of the scale of destruction and the level of need for shelter.
  • As well as the level of need, the team will look at the most appropriate types of aid in different areas.
  • We already have aid, including tents, prepositioned in the country, which could be used as emergency clinics, as well as shelters in the immediate aftermath.
  • ShelterBox has responded to several disasters in Nepal throughout the years. Most recently ShelterBox provided aid to people who had lost their homes in the north of the country due to flooding and landslides last autumn.
  
HOW YOU CAN HELP
 
Inform your clubs & Rotarians
One of the easiest ways to make an impact is to share ShelterBox as a meaningful way for Rotarians in the district to contribute. 
 
Create a matching program
Several districts have reached out regarding their plans to create a matching program. District 7890 has just completed theirs at their district conference. 
 
Inspire action at your district conference
A simple mention of the effort and a suggestion for a passing of the hat can make a huge impact as well.
 
Spread the word from home
Social media is an extremely effective method for sharing the message to your networks.
 
We are still in the early days of the disaster.  Because we are currently assessing the best way to respond and the most appropriate aid for the earthquake in Nepal, we cannot accept donations restricted to Nepal.  Your support will help us provide emergency aid to families affected by the earthquake in Nepal as well as survivors affected by disaster across the world in all of our ongoing disaster responses.
 
Yours in Rotary Service,
 
Alan Monroe
ShelterBox USA | Interim Executive Director
p: 941-907-6036 x107 | f:  941-907-6970 | c: 941-539-2819
e: amonroe@shelterboxusa.org | twitter & skype: AlanSBUSA
 
Mailing Address:
8374 Market St. #203 | Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
Physical Address:
7359 Merchant Court | Lakewood Ranch, FL 34240

Providing shelter, warmth and dignity to disaster survivors worldwide.