Watching the news across the spectrum of news channels, the sheer enormity of the natural disaster is just about sinking in. Over 20 million people affected, crops worth over a billion dollars underwater, hundreds lost their lives and millions their livelihood.
The immediate loss of lives may not seem exceptional when compared to other major disasters in the past few years but the potential numbers, if adequate relief and assistance is not provided in time, are staggering. Imagine over 20 million people, without shelter, food, exposed to the elements and living a hand to mouth existence. This is an ideal breeding ground for diseases which would spread very quickly in high density living arrangements like relief camps and temporary living arrangements.
Couple to this the sheer challenge of feeding and sustainable assistance for millions of affected people who outnumber the total population of Australia!
Aid is needed, and in much greater sums then that which has already been pledged. One major reason which has people hesitating to loosen their purse strings is the fear that the money may not reach the people in need , or that the money may fall into the hands of the radical Islamist groups with a presence in those parts. This fear is not without justification. However these reasons should not be used as an excuse when millions are suffering and surviving on the brink.
If you don’t trust official channels, please assist work which is focused on rescue, care and rehabilitation of people affected by floods in Pakistan. Choose a charity or organisation on the ground involved in this work which you trust and contribute.
Organisations like United Nation Agencies ,World Vision , Save the Children, Islamic Aid , Christian Aid and many others are already on the ground and have began addressing immediate needs .
CMS is also raising funds to support the relief efforts of our partners in Pakistan as they respond in appropriate ways to the needs around them.
Let us also uphold the people and this situation in prayer.
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