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Peru

Oxfam International Emergency Committee approves and seeks funds to support emergency flooding situation in Puno, Peru

Lima, Perú, 20 February 2003 - The Oxfam International Emergency Committee in Peru, agreed to approve the Emergency Flooding Support project in the Andean region of Puno, southern Peru, for a total amount of $187,415 US. These funds will be designated for the provision of water for human consumption; chlorine; transport of food; temporary shelter and support to volunteer teams that will clean water sources, repair well pumps and construct latrines as well as other various activities.
Oxfam Great Britain has committed $81,845 while Oxfam America has committed $17,000, which covers 52.2% of the total sum. The committee is currently in the process of seeking the remaining funds necessary to achieve the support initiative.

The project will directly benefit 3,150 families in the three provinces that have been most affected by the flooding: Huancane, Azangaro and Melgar. According to the official data, more that 7,000 families have been affected as they have lost their crops, homes and livestock.

The main objectives of the project are to assist families in protecting them from health risks due to a lack of food, safe shelter and clean water. Without due attention these factors may continue and threaten the health and very survival of the region's inhabitants.

The Emergency Committee will continue to inform Oxfam's networks and allies about the progress of the activities and the financial status of this project.