Aid Targets Flood Survivors in Somalia
New York, Jan. 16, 1998 -- A Lutheran
World Relief grant of $20,000 is for flood victims in Somalia. Overflow
of the Juba and Shabelle rivers has flooded villages in the surrounding
areas, leaving people temporarily or permanently homeless. Most of the
food traditionally stored underground has been destroyed and standing crops
are rotting under water. Chances of a second planting are uncertain. Latrines
have been flooded, dysentery is on the rise and a severe outbreak
of malaria
is expected. Part of an appeal by Action by Churches Together, LWR's
grant will help support emergency relief in 22 villages in the next 3-6
months.