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Nepal

Nearly Two Million Children Affected by Nepal Earthquake, as Save the Children Begins Aid Distribution

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Wendy Christian 203.465.8010 (M)

Phil Carroll 267.992.6356 (M)

Fairfield, Conn. (April 27, 2015) — With nearly two million children feared affected by Saturday’s deadly earthquake in Nepal – which has claimed more 3,500 lives to date – Save the Children has begun the distribution of much-needed aid in Kathmandu Valley.

“As the sheer devastation of the recent earthquake becomes clearer, we know that children have been the most affected by this disaster,” says Roger Hodgson, Deputy Country Director for Save the Children in Nepal.

“Despite the difficulties in reaching some of the hardest-hit regions, Save the Children is mobilising much-needed items to help these children and their families. Helping those most affected by this disaster will continue to be our top priority in the coming days, weeks and months.”

To assist those displaced by the quake, the charity has begun the delivery of 136 tarpaulins in Kathmandu, while in the earthquake-affected Bhaktapur district, 180 baby packs – which include children’s clothes, blankets and soap – are being distributed to those in need. Save the Children will also begin distributing many more items to some of the hardest-hit regions outside Kathmandu Valley, including Gorkha and Sindhupalchowk districts.

The charity has launched a fundraising campaign with the goal of raising 50 million USD to assist with its aid efforts.

How You Can Help

Save the Children is in need of donations to support our disaster response efforts. Your support will help us protect vulnerable children and provide desperately needed relief to families. Donations will go to the Nepal Earthquake Children's Relief Fund will support our disaster response to this emergency.

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More About the Earthquake in Nepal

The epicentre of the massive quake was 80km (50 miles) east of Pokhara, approximately half way between the town and the capital Kathmandu.

Strong tremors have been felt as far away as Delhi.

Initial reports indicate significant damage, with many buildings collapsing and casualties being rushed to hospital. There is a high prospect of significant damage and fatalities, with children and the elderly most at risk.

Government emergency workers are reportedly already on the scene in the most damaged areas. Save the Children teams on the ground are coordinating an emergency response.

In response, Save the Children has launched a disaster response on the ground in Nepal with emergency assistance during this difficult time. Save the Children has worked in Nepal since 1976 and have extensive programs throughout the country. This is the worst earthquake in Nepal in the last 81 years.

Learn more about Save the Children's work in Nepal

Save the Children invests in childhood — every day, in times of crisis and for our future. In the United States and around the world, we give children a healthy start, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.