Contact: Beth Schaefer, Media Relations
Manager, Phone: (301) 680-6355 Fax: (301) 680-6370
PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA - The Adventist
Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) is responding to recent torrential
rains and flash flooding that is affecting the lives of thousands in five
southern provinces of Cambodia. ADRA joined forces with several other nongovernmental
organizations (NGOs) and humanitarian agencies in Cambodia on Monday to
provide relief to those affected.
ADRA staff and volunteers were able to distribute 1,000 tarpaulin sheets in four affected districts. "We hope that the temporary shelters will provide a bit more comfort to the thousands of people displaced from their homes," says Christine Hwang, M.D., an ADRA Cambodia volunteer from Canada who helped deliver the tarps. "Unfortunately, the effects of this flood will not subside with the water level."
Relief workers were forced to go by boat into many of the affected areas. "We had to go by boat to deliver tarps in the Kandieng District," explains Dr. Hwang. "Normally there is a road to the area. Now, there are only patches of dirt alternating with turbulent water channels. I saw people sleeping in beds along the roadside. One family was sitting inside their handmade canoe, going through the daily rituals of brushing teeth and repairing fishing nets."
Earlier reports by the Government of Cambodia estimate the floods affected more than 21,000 families, and more than 3,500 houses were damaged or destroyed. The deputy governor estimates that at least 30 percent of the rice crop was destroyed, according to Dr. Hwang.
Because relief efforts are still hampered by high water levels, collapsed bridges and blocked highways, hunger due to crop destruction, and water-borne diseases are major concerns.
ADRA staff in Cambodia are seeking other ways to assist those affected. ADRA's International office, located in Silver Spring, Maryland, is accepting monetary donations for its relief efforts in Cambodia. To make a donation, please call ADRA's toll-free number 1-800-424-ADRA (2372).
ADRA Central Office
12501 Old Columbia Pike
Silver Spring, MD 20904
Ph: 800-424-ADRA (1-800-424-2372); Fax: 301-680-6370
E-mail: Beth Schaefer, Media Relations Manager