UNICEF brings hope to Japanese children

UNICEF NZ (UN Children’s Fund)
Media Release
25 March 2011

UNICEF brings hope to Japanese children

Children affected by the catastrophe in Japan are receiving assistance from UNICEF (UN Children’s Fund) with supplies arriving in the country yesterday.

In the wake of the disaster the UN’s Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon, offered the Japanese government full support from UN agencies should they require it. UNICEF Japan quickly responded on the ground providing targeted assistance where it is needed most.

Specifically, UNICEF is setting up child friendly spaces and planning for the re-opening of school activities. To support this work, supplies arriving in Japan included 20 Early Childhood Development kits, 20 Recreation Kits and 10 ‘School in a box’.

Dennis McKinlay, Executive Director at UNICEF NZ, said, “As we know from recent events in Christchurch, children are particularly vulnerable and need special care to help them cope in the aftermath of a disaster.

“Children look to adults for protection and support to bring their lives back to normal as soon as possible. Adults are likely to be struggling with the enormity of the situation themselves which is why it’s crucial for our UNICEF team in Japan to work with partners to help support children practically and emotionally.”

The circumstances in Japan are ever-changing and UNICEF will continue to monitor the situation and to provide ongoing support where needed, particularly in the areas of child protection, education and psycho-social support. As the full needs assessment is completed it is likely UNICEF could extend our assistance to further areas.

“Just as the world rallied to our needs in Christchurch recently, we are doing what we can to support our friends in Japan and will continue to provide whatever support is needed by the Japanese government,” McKinlay added.

ENDS

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