Peru Earthquake Relief

An 8.0 magnitude earthquake struck the southern coast of Peru on August 15, 2007 resulting in more than 500 deaths, over 1000 injuries, and destroying tens of thousands of homes.

Humanity First Approach

Humanity First deployed a first response team to provide earthquake victims with resources to help alleviate the suffering as there was a serious shortage of food, temporary housing and blankets. Furthermore, an experienced nurse was sent to provide much-needed medical support. The first assessment team visited and provided aid in the localities of Pisco, Chincha, and Ica.

Results

• The relief team purchased rice, lentils, canned foods, milk, and water equaling about 2 tons of food which helped serve an estimated 500 families (3-5 member per family) for several days. In coordination with a local NGO, the Association of Support and Information for Special Needs Persons, this aid was delivered to earthquake survivors via a secure convoy.
• A volunteer nurse provided medical relief service for almost a month to a clinic in Chincha.
• Based on the needs of the clinic, a computer and some basic medical monitoring equipment were sent in the last week of October 2007.

Next Steps

A team of Humanity First volunteers visited Peru in December 2007 to investigate the construction of sustainable housing for people in the Ica region which continues to suffer from the aftermath of the earthquake. The team’s report and recommendations formed the basis to initiate a shelter construction project. The first phase was recently completed through collaboration with students from University of Virginia’s Alternative Spring Break program to help with the reconstruction in March 2008.

Click Here to learn about Humanity First’s Peru Shelter Relief Program

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