ROMANIA: DISASTER RELIEF PROVIDED TO AID FLOOD VICTIMS

UNCLAS BUCHAREST 000631 STATE PLEASE PASS TO USAID DHCA/OFDA, RANDREW ALSO FOR EUR/CE, ASCHEIBE SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: EAID SOCI SUBJECT: ROMANIA: DISASTER RELIEF PROVIDED TO AID FLOOD VICTIMS RESPONSE REFS: A) BUCHAREST 00609 B)STATE 082811 1.(U) The funds authorized in reftel B were distributed to the NGO World Vision on August 4, 2008 pursuant to Grant no. 186-G-08-0001-00. World Vision has begun executing the grant and remains active in evaluating the needs in the six counties in Romania affected by the flooding. They have shifted their relief efforts north from Iasi to Botosani, where they are providing emergency commodities and supplies. ¶2. (U) The disaster situation is ongoing, and the Ministry of Interior reports that as of August 7, 2008, 21,190 individuals have suffered losses as a result of the flooding. Furthermore, at least 1,492 homes will need to be completely rebuilt. The region has continued to receive large amounts of rain in a series of storms. These storms have hampered the ongoing relief efforts and continue to threaten additional families. ¶3. (U) Post appreciates the aid already received from OFDA and has additionally received USD 10,000 from the US European Command's Humanitarian Assistance program. Engineers from JTF-EAST will rebuild a flood damaged school and kindergarten. TAUBMAN