Video: U.S. Philanthropic Response in Myanmar to Cyclone Nargis
Background
WASHINGTON, April 30 /PRNewswire/ -- On May 2-3, 2008, Cyclone Nargis struck the coast of Myanmar, washing away crops, homes, roads and livestock. The winds were over 120 miles per hour. An estimated 2.4 million people have been severely affected. The Ayeyarwady Delta, known for its rice production and fishing industry, was hit the hardest. The loss of crops and the destruction of the Ayeyarwady Delta left millions of disaster survivors at risk for hunger. Cyclone Nargis also caused damaged electricity and communication lines, transportation infrastructure and water sources. Nearly 95 percent of housing in the delta region was destroyed.
Soon after Cyclone Nargis struck, the United Nations World Food Program (WFP) was on the ground, making assessments, distributing food and other humanitarian relief and providing logistical support. Critical needs included shelter, water, cooking supplies, emergency health kits and food. WFP provided food supplies to all people living in temporary shelters and severely affected communities.
Funding Shortfall
Ten days after Cyclone Nargis hit, WFP appealed to the international community for $120 million so the agency could implement its emergency operation.
$69.5 million - food
$50.5 million - logistics and telecommunications services
Total:$120 million
As of April 2009, WFP has reached nearly one million people in the Ayeyarwady Delta area. Although much progress has been made, several assessments indicate that certain areas still require food assistance for longer than was originally anticipated. The funding shortfall for the current emergency operation is around $22 million.
Private Sector Support from the United States
Many corporations and foundations in the United States made generous contributions to help WFP's emergency operation in Myanmar. Over $2 million were raised.
These organizations among others, as well as individuals, helped make a difference in Myanmar.
Bloomberg L.P.
The Boeing Company
Caterpillar Foundation
GM Foundation
Goldman, Sachs & Co.
Google.org Fund of Tides Foundation
Hewlett-Packard Company Foundation
Kraft Foods Global, Inc.
Not On Our Watch
The Prem Rawat Foundation
Women's Research & Education Institute - DBA Global Summit of Women
