U.S. Response to the South Asia Earthquake

The U.S. package includes $50 million for humanitarian relief, $50 million for reconstruction, and $56 million to support Defense Department relief operations.

America’s response has been immediate and generous, consistent with our deep commitment to Pakistan. According to USAID Administrator Andrew Natsios, who led the U.S. delegation of State and Defense Department representatives, the United States will remain active in relief and reconstruction efforts through our aid programs, unique military capabilities, and private sector efforts.

• To date, the U.S. has spent $24.5 million for commodities and support for relief organizations providing emergency assistance. In particular, the United States is focused on addressing the urgent need for shelter as winter sets in.
• U.S. military and civilian cargo airlifts have delivered hundreds of tons of medical supplies, food, shelters, blankets, and rescue equipment to Pakistan.
• American military helicopters have flown over 600 hundred sorties delivering almost two million pounds of relief supplies to the disaster area and evacuating thousands of people needing immediate medical attention.
• A U.S. Army Mobile Army Surgical Hospital (MASH) is operating in Muzaffarabad, providing urgent medical care to those injured by the earthquake.
• Three U.S. Navy ships have delivered heavy equipment and supplies through Karachi; additional vessels will arrive in the near future.
• The President will soon announce a private sector initiative, led by major American corporate leaders, to raise funds for South Asian earthquake relief and reconstruction. 
• The United States will participate in the Government of Pakistan’s Reconstruction Conference planned for November.

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