Channels of relief opening up; access to delta for foreign aid workers still limited

YANGON, Myanmar, (May 22, 2008) – World Vision has been able to increase its humanitarian response on the ground in Myanmar by sending additional aid workers and supplies into the country, but the organization cautions that increased access is still required to reach cyclone survivors in need of relief.

Five foreign staff with expertise in distribution, logistics, water and sanitation and human resources arrived in Myanmar on Tuesday morning – joining nearly 600 staffers who have been actively responding since the opening days of the cyclone.

In addition to technical experts, World Vision is sending in relief flights loaded with supplies, including 2.3 million water purification tablets, 5,000 tarps, 5,000 kitchen sets, 5,000 hygiene kits, 2,000 mosquito nets, and two water purification systems that can purify up to 4,000 gallons of water per hour. The aid agency had been reaching survivors with relief items purchased in-country to this point.

Two flights have already landed from Singapore, and one flight is scheduled from Frankfurt via Bangkok. An additional flight from Singapore is being scheduled for next week.

“We are seeing positive indications that the channels of relief into Myanmar are opening up,” said Steve Goudswaard, Cyclone Nargis response manager for World Vision.

“We are hopeful that in the coming days, we will be able to begin expanding our humanitarian aid operation to reach even more survivors with food, water and medical care. There is an urgent need on the ground, and we cannot wait any longer.”

While the additional staff workers and relief aid are welcome, there is still much more work to be done. World Vision estimates it can help close to 500,000 people for the next six months if it is allowed to have greater access to the hardest-hit areas in the delta region and can bring in additional materials. While the organization is reaching select communities in the delta, overall access remains limited and is hampering access to relief for those who need it the most.

World Vision is appealing for US$19 million from its global donors to support the first six months of its response. The organization has asked Canadian donors for $3 million to help the survivors of Cyclone Nargis and has raised more than $2.28 million so far.

World Vision has operated in Myanmar since 1961 and its donors currently sponsor 42,000 children there. Community development programs funded by the child sponsorship program include food assistance, agriculture, health, clean water, education, income generation and nutrition programs.

World Vision is accepting donations to assist those affected by the cyclone. Those wishing to help can visit WorldVision.ca or call 1-800-268-5528.

World Vision is a Christian relief, development and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. World Vision serves all people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender.

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To interview Dave Toycen, World Vision Canada president and CEO, or regional staff, please contact:

Yoko Kobayashi
905-565-6200 ext. 2151
416-671-0086 (cell)
yoko_kobayashi@WorldVision.ca

Britt Hamilton
905-565-6200 ext. 3973
416-275-1057 (cell)
britt_hamilton@WorldVision.ca