Thousands of people have died and thousands more are missing following the devastating floods which swept away entire neighbourhoods in Libya’s port city of Derna.
In a bid to help provide vital support, international development charity Christian Aid has launched an appeal.
The catastrophic Storm Daniel burst two dams, sending torrents of water and debris through the city, destroying homes and other buildings and knocking out power and water supplies.
Those who survived have lost everything. Homes are covered with mud and debris, and the fear is that many people are also buried.
People are without the basics such as access to clean water and proper sanitation facilities.
Christian Aid is working with Dan Church Aid (DCA), its Act Alliance partner which has had a presence in Libya since 2011. They are providing medical support to rescue teams in Derna and helping establish shelters to host homeless families in Benghazi.
DCA is also distributing basic items such as blankets and bedding, sanitation and hygiene items including liquid soap, shampoo, and sanitary towels. When circumstances allow, DCA will also provide cash support.
Michael Mosselmans, Christian Aid’s Head of Humanitarian Division, said:
“The scenes in Libya are heartbreaking. With critical infrastructure, including hospitals and homes, washed away by the flooding we are seeing people without the basics such as access to clean water and proper sanitation to prevent the risk of diseases.
“Christian Aid has therefore launched an appeal to strengthen the support we can give through our partner, Dan Church Aid, to people who have lost their homes, livelihoods and loved ones.
“Every prayer, every gift, every action brings hope to people hit by disaster. By joining us, you can help people in need rebuild their lives.”
To support the appeal please go to christianaid.org.uk - appeals.
