The Australian Government has contributed $1,000,000 in financial aid for relief efforts in Haiti, Cuba and other Caribbean countries affected by Hurricanes Gustav and Ike and Tropical Storm Hanna.
Australia's grant will be distributed through the offices of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.
Australia's contribution will assist thousands of families affected by heavy winds and rains that caused significant damage to homes, infrastructure, crops and other livelihoods in the affected countries and territories.
Cuba sustained damage to health centres, crops, livestock and fishing, electricity, and telecommunication service sectors. More than 400 small businesses also suffered damages and 100,000 houses were damaged and/or destroyed.
Funds will go towards the purchase zinc sheeting and nails as well as the purchase of some of the relief items including towels, bed sheet and mattresses.
It is estimated that more than 50,000 homes in Haiti were either damaged or completely destroyed by severe flooding. It has been reported by the Haitian Government that more than 110,000 persons are still residing in emergency shelters.
Australia's grant will be used in Haiti for the purchase of emergency relief items, which include food parcels, hygiene kits, tarpaulins, kitchen kits, blankets and mosquito nets.
Jamaica suffered extensive damages to its banana crops and in Turks and Caicos, there is significant structural damage to houses and buildings. Damage in the Bahamas was concentrated in the south eastern portion of the archipelago, mainly to housing and transport infrastructure.
Australia's assistance will be used in Jamaica, Bahamas & Turks and Caicos for the purchase of emergency relief items, including food parcels, hygiene kits, tarpaulins, kitchen kits, blankets and mosquito nets.