Following the flood disaster in the city of Derna, Libya, on September 19, one of the most significant human losses occurred. Hundreds of people lost their lives, thousands were injured, and the losses were overwhelming.
The aftermath revealed the severity of the situation as floodwaters receded. The most affected areas were Derna, Albayda, Soussa, Al-Marj, Shahat, Taknis, Battah, Tolmeita, Bersis, Tokra, and Al-Abyar. The magnitude of the disaster was so extensive that it disrupted infrastructure and transportation services, caused significant damage to homes, and rendered many uninhabitable.
The aftermath of the flood disaster caused not only the loss of lives, injuries, and damages but also the displacement of 43,000 people. In response to this humanitarian crisis, the International Blue Crescent Foundation (IBC) promptly took action. Leveraging years of accumulated expertise, the foundation actively engaged in the field to assess the fundamental and humanitarian needs. It collaborated simultaneously with local authorities, international organizations, and partners.
The flood, which abruptly altered the lives of thousands, further compounded the difficulties for the survivors, especially considering the impending winter season. To prevent further suffering and provide immediate assistance, the International Blue Crescent Foundation, with the support of its local partner STACO, distributed beds and blankets to hundreds of displaced families. Unfortunately, the unforeseen magnitude of the disaster resulted in substantial material and emotional damages. Consequently, access to clean food became a significant challenge alongside shelter. The foundation extended its support to Libya by collaborating with local partners, STACO, and in conjunction with Action Medeor, Aktion Deutschland Hilft, and Lions Club International. Together, they carried out the distribution of daily hot meals to approximately 1000 families for a month, addressing the critical need for nourishment in the wake of this unexpected calamity.
International Blue Crescent Foundation continued its assistance to those in need by providing blankets, beds, and hot meals. Through these distributions, the foundation reached over 22,500 individuals, offering ongoing support. Additionally, with the support of IDRF Canada, the foundation sustained daily hot meal distributions for one month, further extending its aid efforts.
The damage caused by the flood in Derna has severely affected access to clean water due to the impairment of resources. Recognizing the critical importance of ensuring access to clean water for the survival of individuals, the International Blue Crescent Foundation has prioritized its WASH project to prevent diseases arising from hygiene deficiencies.
The foundation is keenly aware of how vital it is to facilitate disaster survivors' access to one of the most basic necessities for sustaining life—water. To reach hundreds more affected individuals in Libya, we rely on the invaluable support of our generous donors now more than ever.
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