Wahroonga, New South Wales — More than 2,600 people affected by severe flooding in Fiji will receive emergency food packs thanks to the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA).
Communities across three districts remain on cyclone watch as strong wind and rain continue to batter the island nation. Three people have died and more than 3,700 people have been left homeless as flood waters continue to rise.
“ADRA has been called to meet the urgent needs of those placed in evacuation centres," said Chris Olafson, Director of Emergency Management, ADRA Australia."
"Over the weekend ADRA staff delivered 214 packs, which provide families with enough rice, tuna, split peas and other essentials to last a fortnight," said Mr Olafson. "Another 376 will be delivered in the coming days and the ongoing needs of the community will be monitored so we can continue this potentially life-saving response."
Flood waters continue to inundate the Western Division of Fiji destroying houses, towns, roads and bridges, causing havoc for both domestic and international transport.
There are major water and electricity disruptions throughout many parts of the Western Division, affecting more than 150,000 people. Flooding in low-lying areas is more than two meters deep and in some towns the extent of the damage is unknown as access is limited and difficult.
Earlier this year ADRA assisted more than 12,000 people who were affected by flooding in Fiji.
To support the response in Fiji, and ADRA Australia's ongoing Emergency Management work around the world please give to the Disaster Preparedness and Response fund online or by calling 1800 242 372.
In the last 12 monhts ADRA Australia has responded to numerous disasters both here in Australia and overseas, including the Christchurch earthquake, the Japanese tsunami and the Horn of Africa drought and famine crisis.
While in Australia, ADRA has responded to Cyclone Yasi, the flooding in Queensland, the Perth fires and flooding in south- and northern-New South Wales.
ADRA Australia is a Christian humanitarian agency that implements a wide range of community development and disaster response programs here in Australia and overseas. ADRA Australia works with people in poverty and distress to create just and positive change through empowering partnerships and responsible action.