Dominica: Disaster Relief

While our press has been hugely taken up with the incredibly sad refugee crisis, other disasters have taken place.

On Thursday 27 August 2015 Tropical Storm Erika pounded the eastern Caribbean island of Dominica.  The devastation that followed has set the country back an estimated 20 years of development.  Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has estimated the repairs to basic infrastructure to cost nearly half the country’s GDP, which doesn’t include the cost of rebuilding at least 370 homes that have been destroyed completely.  With children and families desperately trying to salvage what they can Prime Minter Skerrit appeals for international support.

As part of our crisis intervention response, through our project Coordinator, Gerry (whose parents were from Dominica) we plan to deliver a container of clothing and aid as soon as possible to help those affected at this difficult this time.

“Memories of friendly people and wide smile children whilst on holiday there has spurred me on to help this wonderful paradise get back on its feet again” says Gerry.  Thus far, the storm has taken the lives of 31 people and knocked out power and water supplies.  As daily accounts come through, it is evident the death toll will continue to rise. 

This week we will be collecting aid from a number of companies and aid agencies. This will promptly be sorted, packed and loaded in Lancashire, so if you are local and willing to help, please get in touch.