Two hundred ShelterBoxes leave for Pakistan disaster area

TWO hundred ShelterBoxes are due to leave ShelterBox headquarters tomorrow (August 12), destined for Pakistan and more boxes will follow.

These boxes are in addition to the pre-positioned ShelterBox tents which are currently being distributed in the flood-hit country.

The boxes will be flown to Islamabad, Pakistan, where they will be distributed to displaced families by ShelterBox local partners, the NRSP (National Rural Support Programme).

Each ShelterBox contains a disaster relief tent for an extended family, a stove, blankets and other items essential for survival.

John Leach, ShelterBox Head of Operations, said: “Within days of the disaster hitting Pakistan our pre-positioned tents were being distributed to the thousands of people displaced by the flooding.

“The need for aid in Pakistan is worsening by the day and it is now imperative that we employ the fastest and most efficient way of getting shelter to those who need it most. To ensure this happens we continue to work closely with our partners in Pakistan to get our equipment distributed in the flood-hit regions.

“‘This disaster is still evolving as the flood water moves further south towards the Arabian Sea displacing thousands more people as it spreads. Our hearts go out to everyone caught up in the disaster.”

Sidmouth is also doing its bit towards the flood relief appeal, with a coffee morning planned for Saturday and a collection by local Rotarians last Saturday.