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Nepal

Habitat for Humanity to assist those affected by Nepal earthquake

Manila, 26 April 2015 – Habitat for Humanity will assist families affected by the 7.8-magnitude earthquake, which struck Nepal today, resulting in widespread damage. The Nepali government has declared a state of emergency in the affected areas. According to Nepali police reports, more than 1,700 people have been injured and over 1,900 deaths have been confirmed. Those numbers are expected to grow as the impact of the earthquake becomes better known.

Habitat disaster response teams are assessing the situation and coordinating response operations with local government agencies and disaster relief partners.

Habitat’s ability to respond effectively to this disaster will require support from donors, corporate partners and other community organizations. Donations can be made at https://www.habitat.org/cd/giving/one/donate.aspx?link=568. Based on available funding, the longer-term response will follow Habitat’s model of assisting affected communities with housing solutions ranging from emergency shelter interventions to permanent home reconstruction.

“As we continue to assess the impact of the earthquake, we know there will be significant need to help families rebuild their homes and their lives in the days and months ahead,” said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. “We’re grateful to our supporters and partners who can join us in our efforts to assist our friends in Nepal. The more funds we raise, the more families we can help.”

Habitat’s Disaster Response team provides technical expertise in home and community rebuilding and to date has helped more than 200,000 disaster-affected families around the world. Habitat for Humanity has worked in Nepal for 18 years and has helped tens of thousands of families in need of decent housing.

Notes to Editors To set up interviews, receive photography or further information, please contact Michele Soh, +65 9233 1544, MSoh@habitat.org or Geno Teofilo, +63 905 669 5785, GTeofilo@habitat.org