(March 1, 2010) - CARE was shocked and deeply saddened by the tragedy of the recent earthquake in Chile. The loss of life and intense emotional trauma suffered by those who survived the quake has aroused sympathy around the world.
More than 700 people have been killed after a massive 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck central Chile early Saturday morning, causing massive destruction to homes, roads and infrastructure. The quake was followed by a 2.3-meter tsunami that crashed into Chile's coast, causing further devastation. While the exact extent of the damage is not yet known, reports are that the affected areas have been severely damaged.
CARE does not have a permanent presence in Chile, but we are supporting the emergency relief activities of a local partner on the ground.
CARE, with nearly 60 years of emergency experience in Latin America and South America, has emergency response experts on standby in the region ready to deploy. We are coordinating with local partners and members of the international aid community and we are prepared to provide further assistance if necessary.
CARE is part of the massive humanitarian response in nearby Haiti, where a devastating earthquake January 12 killed more than 222,000 people and left more than 1.2 million people homeless.
We wish the people affected by this earthquake a speedy recovery, and our hearts are with Chile as it comes to grips with this terrible tragedy.
|