Helping the people of Ambae affected by the eruption of the volcano
Every little bit can make a difference to the life of the people of Ambae. And a little can go a long way in the islands.
Canterbury
The Ambae volcano activity from February to March 2018 is similar to the volcanic activity at the end of October 2017, but with more sustained emissions of volcanic ashes and gas.
Traditional subsistence agriculture satisfies food needs and with gardens destroyed by ash and acid rain, life has become very difficult for the people of Ambae. Currently people from South and West Ambae are evacuating to East Ambae.
To make matters worse a mud and ash landslide has destroyed the village of Waluebau. Nearly 100 people have been displaced after 23 homes were destroyed. Due to the urgency of the evacuation, people only escaped with the clothes on their back.
The displaced people are now also housed on East Ambae and their immediate needs are simple things like plates, cutlery, water containers, torches, bedding, books and pens for school children.
I would like to help the people of Ambae but I need your help.
During my year on Ambae Island in Vanuatu I learnt so much from the people of Ambae. They are incredibly kind and resilient. They are content with life, treasure their family and community, and have a wonderful sense of humour.
[Photos from Ambae Bulletin Board]
Riana Schoeman's involvement (page creator)
I worked and lived on Ambae Island until June 2017 setting up a computer lab at Torgil Rural Training Centre. I care deeply about the people of this island and can no longer watch passively how the eruption of the volcano disrupt their lives without trying to help.
Use of funds
I will transfer the donations to Dr Basil Leodoro, National Emergency Medical Team Coordinator and General Surgeon. He is working with two teams on Ambae Island and will buy and distribute the goods to people in need.
Latest update
Distribution of donated money 27 July 2018
Ash fall contaminated all drinking water. The picture is of Dr Leodoro handing over $800 of the donated money to buy bottled water.
A need for psychosocial support was identified by the medical response team. The remaining donations helped to get a therapist to Ambae and visit the most affected areas.
I want to thank everyone for your help.
Latest donations
Thank you so much for your donation. Ambae is a very special place and I hope that the volcano will keep on settling down.
Your help and support is greatly appreciated.
I am thanking you on behalf of the people of Ambae for your donation.
Thank you very much for your support.
Who's involved?
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