CARITAS Australia is committing $1 million towards the emergency response in Pakistan following the devastating earthquake that struck the central Asia region in early October.
“We would like to thank the Australian public for their generosity towards those people affected by this tragedy,” Caritas Australia chief executive officer Jack de Groot said.
“The commitment of $1 million reflects the Australian public’s compassion at a time of desperate need.”
By working through partner agency Caritas Pakistan, funds provided by Caritas Australia will be used to support and assist 5000 rural households in eight villages – four in Kashmir around the town of Muzaffarabad and four in the North-West Frontier province around the town of Balakot.
Of the $1 million, $800,000 has come from Australian public donations, and the Australian Government through AusAID has contributed a further $200,000.
Caritas Australia is still accepting donations for the Central Asia Earthquake Appeal, and will be continuing to support the response as it evolves.
Donations can be made by phoning 1800 024 413, on on-line at www.caritas.org.au.
