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U.S. Provides Flood Assistance to Ecuador
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 22, 2008
Press Office: 202-712-4320
Public Information: 202-712-4810
www.usaid.gov
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The American people, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), are airlifting relief commodities in response to severe flooding that has caused a humanitarian crisis in Ecuador. Commodities being airlifted include hygiene kits, water jugs, plastic sheeting, and water containers. In addition, USAID will provide $50,000 for the local purchase and transportation of additional relief supplies.
Heavy seasonal rains beginning in January have led to severe flooding in Ecuador, affecting coastal areas as well as the inland provinces of Canar and Carchi. According to the Ecuadorian Red Cross, rains and flooding have affected approximately 55,000 people to date. Media reports indicate that at least one person has died as a result of the flooding, approximately 3,600 people have been displaced, and the weather has caused extensive agricultural losses. On February 21, U.S. Ambassador Linda Jewell declared a disaster due to the effects of the flooding.
USAID has deployed an assessment team to the affected areas and the U.S. Government stands ready to further assist the people of Ecuador should it be necessary.
For more information about USAID's emergency humanitarian assistance programs, please visit: www.usaid.gov/our_work/humanitarian_assistance/disaster_assistance/.
The U.S. Agency for International Development has provided economic and humanitarian assistance worldwide for more than 40 years.
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