The Department of State and USAID will deliver a number of water purification kits, including buckets and filtering cloths, to Pakistanis affected by the worst humanitarian disaster in Pakistan’s history. This critical assistance is possible because of the generous donations by countless private individuals and organizations to the Pakistan Relief Fund. As a result, approximately 32 million liters of clean water and supplies will reach 40,000 Pakistani households in desperate need. These numbers could easily double or triple with anticipated matched goods and funds.
On his recent trip to Pakistan, USAID Administrator Shah witnessed first-hand the devastation and suffering resulting from the floods. He also held consultations with U.S. humanitarian disaster experts, the United Nations, and others engaged in flood-relief efforts to determine the most urgent needs. It was clear that there continues to be an acute need for clean water, especially as concerns of water-borne and other diseases mount. In addition to the packets, associated commodities will be purchased from the local Pakistani market and distributed to local NGOs.
As Secretary Clinton has said, “Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have lost loved ones, those who have been displaced from their homes, and those left without food or water. The United States has and continues to take swift action to help. But governments cannot be alone in helping the people of Pakistan. That is why the United States Government through the Department of State has established the Pakistan Relief Fund for all Americans to join in this tremendous relief, recovery and reconstruction effort.”
“We continue to work hard providing aid to the people of Pakistan and this additional assistance will help with one of the most pressing needs--that of clean water,” said USAID Administrator Rajiv Shah. “With more than one-fifth of the nation under water it is critical we continue to respond in a quick, agile and creative manner to help confront increasing levels of disease, dehydration and hunger.”
The purchase and distribution of water purification supplies marks the first disbursement of the Pakistan Relief Fund.
On August 19, 2010 during remarks at the United Nations General Assembly’s special session on Pakistan, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton announced the establishment of the Pakistan Relief Fund. Created by the United States Government through the Department of State, the Fund serves as a mechanism for the public to contribute money to the ongoing efforts in Pakistan.
How to Give:
There are three ways people can contribute to the Department of State’s Pakistan Relief Fund:
1. Go to www.state.gov (or directly to www.state.gov/pakistanrelief) and complete an online form to donate via credit card or ACH account.
2. Go to www.state.gov (or directly to www.state.gov/pakistanrelief), download a donation form, and send a contribution by mail.
3. Text the word FLOOD to 27722 to automatically give $10 through a mobile phone. The charge will appear on the monthly statement.
About the Pakistan Relief Fund:
The Department of State’s Pakistan Relief Fund allows the public to give money to help the more than 20 million Pakistanis who have been affected by the floods. The Pakistan Relief Fund was created to most effectively, transparently, and quickly benefit the victims of this devastating flood. The Fund will uniquely seek to leverage money raised by helping to match it with targeted private sector offers. By bringing together private and public sector actors, the Fund offers a unique mechanism to raise the profile of fundraising efforts. The Fund can accept donations from private citizens, organizations, and corporations around the world.
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