Beirut 28 Jul 2006 - International Rescue Committee emergency specialists arrived in Beirut on Friday to survey critical needs and start up emergency relief programs, as more and more Lebanese are uprooted by the worsening crisis.
"Displaced families are indicating that they are desperate for clean water, sanitation, and bathing facilities, so we're hoping to partner with local groups to quickly improve access to these critical services," says Alan Manski, the head of the IRC's emergency team. "We'll also be looking at how we can assist vulnerable children and women who are sheltering in schools and other congested public spaces."
Manski expressed deep concern about the situation in areas of southern Beirut and southern Lebanon that are cut off from assistance. "We're hoping to be able to reach these areas as soon as they open up, and when they do, I really fear a humanitarian disaster will be lurking there," added Manski.
Press Contacts
Melissa Winkler, Cyprus, 1-646-734-0305,
melissa.winkler@theIRC.org
Tina Susman, New York, 1-212-551-2950, tina.susman@theIRC.org
Lydia Gomersall, London, 44-20-7692-2741, lydia@ircuk.org