This project will provide emergency support to the thousands affected by last night's mudslides and flooding, focusing on 1) food and non-food items such as hygiene kits and school packs, 2) psychosocial support to prevent widespread trauma, and 3) water sanitation and hygiene to ensure access to safe water and prevent the spread of disease.
On Saturday 1st of April 2017, massive amounts of rain fell upon the Colombian city of Mocoa, causing several rivers to overflow, and unleashing a 'wave' of mud, rocks, and sediment into many neighborhoods of this city of 345,000. Over 254 people have lost their lives, hundreds are still missing, and local authorities are struggling to cope with the wounded and homeless.
Drawing on global experience and a regional presence in nearby Peru and Ecuador, IsraAID will send a team to focus on the needs of the survivors. These will include a holistic approach focusing on 3 sectors - 1) Humanitarian Aid, 2) Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), and 3) Trauma prevention and resilience building for vulnerable groups, emphasizing women and children. Medical services will also be considered depending on the evolving situation
All of the short-term projects are mean to both respond to the short term needs, as well as prevent long-term effects. Having access to safe water is key to avoiding the outbreak of potentially terrible diseases. Trauma prevention at this stage is key to help empower the community to focus on a return to normalcy, and building a better future.
