Earthquake relief effort continue through night in Italy

Caritas staff have offered local accommodation for people forced from their homes, and where possible are providing counselling and basic necessities following Wednesday's quake. Credit: Caritas Italy.

Caritas staff have offered local accommodation for people forced from their homes, and where possible are providing counselling and basic necessities following Wednesday’s quake. Credit: Caritas Italy.

Caritas and church volunteers have been providing food to rescue workers and people affected by Wednesday’s earthquake in central Italy. The quake hit 24 August in the Rieti region, causing severe damage and loss of life in the towns of Amatrice, Accumoli and Pescara del Tronto.

Andrea Piscopo of Caritas Marche said, “Relief efforts in Arquata and Pescara del Tronto continued throughout the night. We have spent the whole day with the rescue workers and the survivors. Thanks to local Church, youth and Caritas, it has been possible to provide food to them. It’s hard to say what the concrete needs will be until the situation stabilises.”

Caritas Italy has allocated €100,000 for the initial intervention. Caritas offices have offered local accommodation for people forced from their homes, and where possible are providing counselling and basic necessities.

Don Francesco Soddu, Director of Caritas Italy, will lead a team Friday 26 August to meet with local Caritas staff and authorities to discuss the most immediate actions required and those needed for medium and long term.

Don Soddu said, “Caritas has been active since the first hours after the earthquake. We have made available €100,000 for the most pressing needs.”

Caritas Italy is asking supporters to contribute to its national appeal, so that it can help communities re-build. This appeal will be bolstered by a nationwide parish collection in Italy 18 September. Caritas national organisations from Germany, Croatia to Nepal have been offering their support.

As in the case of the earthquake that hit L’Aquila in 2009, Caritas will focus on putting towns and villages back together –  ranging from social services, infrastructure and job creation.

Donations can be made through the Caritas Italy website.

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