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Rotarians Help Christchurch
By Joseph Derr
Rotarians in New Zealand are doing what they can to assist victims
of the devastating earthquake 22 February in Christchurch, where
more than 100 people have been killed and at least 200 are still
missing.
Since the earthquake, responses from Rotarians offering assistance
have been pouring in. Authorities are requesting that donations in
kind or noncash items not be sent to Christchurch, as the
government, local agencies, and NGOs have sufficient emergency and
second phase supplies for the ongoing needs of the community.
Rotary New Zealand World Community Service, a group of Rotarians
dedicated to international service projects in New Zealand and the
South Pacific, has set up an earthquake appeal fund. “New
Zealand is a small country and everyone knows someone in
Christchurch, so this is truly a national disaster," said Past RI
President William B. Boyd, a native of New Zealand. “I know that the
six districts in New Zealand will work together to rebuild the
spirit of the city. Best wishes from Rotarians from around the world
have reminded us once again that we are a family and that in
difficult times, families come together." The
incoming Rotary Foundation trustee-chair added: "The Rotary
Foundation has an important place in the family of Rotary, and our
Foundation will play its part as Christchurch rebuilds.”
According to a press release on the Rotary Zone 7B (New Zealand and
Pacific Islands) website, Rotarians have been offering to host
traumatized residents so that they can get away to rest before
trying to rebuild their lives. The effort is being coordinated
within Rotary and through welfare agencies. "We
are OK but very stirred and shaken," assistant Rotary coordinator
Ross Skinner wrote. Leanne Jaggs, past governor for District 9920
who lives in Auckland, reported that she was in Christchurch on
business when the earthquake hit. "I was just about to jump out of
my rental car for a meeting, when it felt like the car was moving,"
she wrote. |
