By now we have all heard about the devastating 7.9 magnitude earthquake that rocked Lima, Perú last night. Current death tolls are approaching 400 with over 1,000 injuries reported. The town of Ica is 80% destroyed according to Children's Hunger Fund (CHF) Mercy Network director in Lima, Teresa Choquehuanca. "We are trying to communicate with the churches and brothers in the cities of Ica, Grappa and Chincha to offer whatever help we can", wrote Teresa. "We are having problems with the telephone lines, so it is difficult to communicate."
Through CHF's Mercy Network model, trained and equipped local churches are immediately able to serve the needs of the suffering families in Perú. CHF has had a presence in Peru since 2002, serving more than 8,100 poor families (Approx. 40,500 children) in the slums and villages so far this year alone. One headline proclaims that it is "safer outside" because of the frequent and strong aftershocks. Mercy Network churches are strategically located within the damaged communities, so they are already mobilized to help those who have been forced out of their homes to live on the streets.
One of the workers at our ministry partner "ACED" reports that the situation is bad. She told us that with so many people without homes it will be a "busy busy day today".
Children's Hunger Fund already provides aid through the Perú Mercy Network and several sea containers of products are arriving for distribution just in time. A container of medical supplies and one filled with sweaters and winter clothing arrived there in the past few days and one full container of Food Paks® will arrive very soon. This kind of immediate response is only possible because of the strong and vital relationship CHF established within the impacted areas.
Headquartered in Los Angeles, Children's Hunger Fund is recognized as one of the most cost-effective charities in America. Forbes.com lists CHF as one of two American charities to receive a 100% rating in all 3 of their efficiency ratings categories. More than 99% of CHF revenue goes directly to programs serving children in need.
"We are in constant contact with our partner in Perú", says CHF Communications Director, Fred Martin. "As they assess the needs and give reports, we will need to be ready to respond with financial help. They will need to make emergency purchases in country of items like tents, emergency food, first aid, and water. Individuals can be part of helping Perú's children in the wake of this horrible tragedy. Visit our website www.childrenshungerfund.org to find out how you can help."
Another way individuals can help is through personal contacts. CHF seeks relationships with corporations or churches that desire to help in Perú. CHF is strategically positioned to channel aid directly to the children and families who need it most. CHF also employs a vital volunteer program in the San Fernando Valley and in the Chicago area where families and organizations can come put their hands to work to help needy children.
Please contact CHF at 800.708.7589 or email info@childrenshungerfund.org to begin helping.
Thank you for your generous and immediate response to this urgent need.
Contact:
Fred Martin
Communications Director
Children's Hunger Fund
12820 Pierce Street
Pacoima, CA 91331
818.899.5122 x212
www.childrenshungerfund.org