Following the 7.3 magnitude earthquake which hit Vanuatu on 18 December, affecting an estimated 116,000 people in Port Vila and the surrounding areas. We are acting quickly to support children, families and communities affected by yet another devastating natural disaster in the country.
The earthquake has caused significant damage to homes, businesses and critical infrastructure including water supply, power supply, communications, and transport links.
Children, their families, and communities face an immediate need for emergency shelter, hygiene kits, water, and medical support as well as mental health and psychosocial support for those most affected.
While the earthquake hit at the end of the education year, it is likely this crisis will be protracted and hinder children’s access to learning. A safe, conducive learning space is not only essential to meet children’s educational needs, but also to support them in bouncing back.
Save the Children have rapidly responded to the emergency with children at the centre of our response efforts. In the first few weeks of the response, we will:
- Distribute temporary shelter and non-food items including tarpaulins and hygiene kits
- Facilitate access to basic health services and clean water
- Establish child-friendly spaces and youth friendly clubs to provide a safe space for children to play and learn together
- Provide structured psychosocial support for children and youth
We will also deliver recovery activities to ensure children and families bounce back quickly and sustainably.
We urgently seek your support to help us deliver immediate relief and long-term recovery for the most vulnerable children affected by the earthquake.
$300 can help keep a children safe by establishing Child Friendly Spaces
$250 can support a families with essential items Non-Food Items (NFIs), including shelter and hygiene kits
Please give today, support from people like yourself helps to make this life-saving work possible.
