TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Taiwan Red Cross on Saturday announced an initial donation of US$50,000 (NT$1.65 million) to support the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the Myanmar Red Cross Society in their emergency relief and disaster recovery efforts following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Myanmar on Friday.
During an online IFRC meeting on disaster relief and international aid coordination, the Taiwan Red Cross also pledged to contribute to long-term reconstruction efforts, according to a press release. Participants included the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and representatives from national Red Cross societies in Myanmar, China, and Thailand.
The IFRC has launched a global appeal to raise 15 million Swiss Francs (NT$564.83 million) to assist at least 10,000 families out of the 50,000 estimated to be affected by the deadly quake, which has so far claimed more than 1,600 lives.
The IFRC said 30% of donations will be allocated for emergency relief, with the remaining 70% dedicated to reconstruction efforts in the Southeast Asian country.
The IFRC listed five key categories of humanitarian assistance:
- Medical Assistance: Establish mobile clinics, and provide medications and first-aid supplies.
- Emergency Shelter: Distribute tents, tarpaulins, and solar-powered lamps.
- Basic Living Supplies: Provide sleeping bags, mosquito nets, and blankets.
- Clean Water and Energy: Supply drinking water and mobile solar energy stations.
- Long-term Recovery: Build shelters and support livelihood development.
Those wishing to contribute to the Taiwan Red Cross’ aid efforts for Myanmar can do so via the organization’s official donation webpage.
