Ten thousand are reported dead and more than half a million people displaced as a result of ongoing violence in South Sudan, with leading aid groups calling for assistance to meet the growing humanitarian needs of those displaced into neighbouring countries.
“Reports indicate that up to 70% of those fleeing their homes are women and children,” says Beryl Hartmann, Humanitarian Program Officer at the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) Australia. It is vital we protect and support those made most vulnerable in situations like this.”
More than 25,000 people will benefit from ADRA’s current response which includes the installation of hygienic toilet systems, the distribution of essential items including bedding, soap and cutlery, and the installation of water harvesting systems. ADRA is targeting refugees in neighbouring Uganda.
“At this stage the priority is meeting people’s basic needs and protecting against disease to ensure people who have left everything behind survive to see peace return,” says Ms Hartmann.
In addition, ADRA is working with local authorities to guard against future disasters and unsustainable practices by actively protecting the environment surrounding the refugee camps.
“ADRA volunteers are working with community members to map and mark trees,” said Ms Hartmann. “This process protects them against felling by the hugely inflated population as they collect fire wood.”
ADRA responds to numerous disasters across around the world. Responses to the Syrian refugee crisis, Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines and Cyclone Ian in Tonga continue. ADRA also holds official agreements to the NSW, ACT and WA governments to provide emergency accommodation during emergencies here in Australia.
For more information about these or any of ADRA’s work overseas or here in Australia visit www.adra.org.au or call 1800 242 372
ADRA Australia is a Christian aid and humanitarian agency that empowers communities and changes lives in Australia, the Pacific, Asia and Africa. It is a member of the Australian Council for Social Services and a member of the Australian Council for International Development. ADRA Australia is part of the international ADRA network with has a presence in 126 countries. ADRA is the worldwide humanitarian arm of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
