UNICEF NZ launches appeal and readies supplies for children in Fiji following devastating Cyclone Winston

Donate: www.unicef.org.nz/fiji or text FIJI to 2923 to make a $3 donation

UNICEF New Zealand has launched an emergency fundraising appeal to respond to the severe devastation caused by Tropical Cyclone Winston in Fiji - reportedly the worst storm to ever hit the southern hemisphere.

Supplies from UNICEF's Suva warehouse are also being packed and loaded, ready to be sent to Koro and Ovalau islands later today. Both locations were left badly damaged following the extreme impact of TC Winston.

It is estimated that more than 60,000 people (including 26,000 children) live in areas that experienced very destructive winds near the eye of the cyclone. More than 400,000 people (including 165,000 children) live in areas that may have been affected by strong winds, rain and flooding.

UNICEF New Zealand's Executive Director, Vivien Maidaborn said, "While the full picture is not yet clear, what we already know does not bode well for the people of Fiji. So many families have lost everything and so many communities have been completely flattened.

"This is a tough time for Fiji and UNICEF will do all we can to race supplies and help to where it is needed most.

"UNICEF staff are currently packing up supplies from our warehouse in Suva. Our teams will then work closely with the Government and other partners to navigate extreme logistical challenges so that distribution can begin immediately.”

Children, families and communities across Fiji will require extensive support to meet growing and urgent needs around water, sanitation and hygiene, including the provision of water containers, purification tablets, soap, and temporary sanitation facilities.

In the aftermath of a cyclone, issues related to health are always of paramount concern due to the presence of stagnant water which can increase the risk of waterborne diseases.

Furthermore, education needs are also a priority as many schools have been destroyed or are currently being used as shelters. This could result in interruptions to education and so to prevent this, UNICEF will provide tents to act as temporary classrooms and School-in-a-box kits that have enough materials to ensure children can get back to school quickly.

Ms Maidaborn added, "So many New Zealanders have strong connections to Fiji and we are appealing to each and every Kiwi to help us get Fiji back on its feet once more.

"Many people with family in Fiji will also know first-hand the trauma their loved ones have been through and the heartbreak they've suffered at seeing their country destroyed.

“The next few days will also be critical as the full impact of this emergency continues to unfold. UNICEF will continue to scale up efforts to reach as many children and families that need immediate assistance.

“You can help us supply urgently needed basic essentials to ensure the safety of children and families in the next trying days and weeks. We are calling on all New Zealanders to donate what they can at www.unicef.org.nz/fiji"

Donate: www.unicef.org.nz/fiji or text FIJI to 2923 to make a $3 donation

ENDS

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