Mercy Corps on the frontlines as Chechen refugee crisis worsens
Mercy Corps is delivering aid to refugees in camps and with host families in the two largest districts of the republic, Nazranskyi and Sunzhenskyi. These districts comprise the bulk of the Republic and include border areas with Chechnya.
The living conditions in refugee camps are extremely difficult. Some families are housed in cardboard shelters that offer little protection against the elements. Many refugees are living with host families; it is not uncommon for more than 25 people to be found in a modest 3-bedroom home. There may be up to 300 refugees in a family compound. Children under 12 make up an estimated 40-500f the displaced.
The agency conducted a needs assessment among the refugee population and identified the greatest needs as:
- clean water (an outbreak of hepatitis is feared)
- food, including baby formula and flour, and cooking utensils
- hygiene items to combat skin diseases, colds and flu
- medicines, vitamins and medical supplies, to cope with respiratory and intestinal infections and TB
- tents and shelter items, including plastic sheeting, flooring and materials for leaking barns and roofs
- mattresses, blankets and tent beds/cots
- makeshift schools and activities or children
- wood for heating and cooking
- counseling, especially for children
How To Help
By Mail
Mercy Corps International
Refugee Relief Fund
PO Box 2669 Dept. W
Portland, OR 97208-2669
By Phone
1-800-292-3355 x250
Since 1979, Mercy Corps International has provided over $450 million in assistance to more than 60 countries. Based in Portland, Seattle and Washington, DC, Mercy Corps is known nationally and internationally for its quick-response, high-impact programs. Over 94 percent of the agency's resources are allocated directly to programs that help the poor.
Material Goods
At this time Mercy Corps is not accepting individual donations of clothing, food, blankets or other supplies, which are expensive to sort, pack, store, and ship.