What’s Happening in St. Vincent & How You Can Help
St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a popular tourist destination in the Caribbean. Praised for beautiful scenery and a laid-back way of life, this chain of islands is a fan favorite; especially for those interested in yachting and sail boating. These islands have offered so much enjoyment and adventure to us over the years, it’s time we return the favor during their time of need, plus we all call this one Earth home.
A time in need
Beginning on April 9th, the long-dormant La Soufrière volcano, located on the island of St. Vincent began erupting. Clouds of hot ash measuring as tall as 20,000 feet into the air covered the island. A few days later on April 14th, another eruption produced a superheated cloud of gas, ash, and rocks speeding down the hillsides. The eruptions have continued almost every day since and are likely to continue for weeks.
La Soufrière volcano turning what used to be clear blue skies into hazy grey clouds. Source: United Nations News.
Thousands of citizens have evacuated the island, and thousands more are in shelters across the island. Since the entire country now does not have access to electricity or clean water, they are in dire need of some humanitarian aid. Government officials are worried that this situation will cause an increase in the number of Covid-19 cases across the island. Any aid we can give no matter how small will be greatly appreciated and help the survival of many.
How you can help
St. Vincent and the Grenadines Red Cross (SVGRC)
St. Vincent and the Grenadines Red Cross are working to assess humanitarian needs and provide immediate assistance to those that have been evacuated, including the thousands of people that are in emergency shelters. So far they have provided necessary equipment such as blankets, hygiene kits, and mosquito nets. They are accepting donations and you know what they say, “Every penny counts.”
UNICEF
UNICEF was one of the first organizations to assist displaced people due to La Soufriere. Within 24 hours after the explosion, UNICEF provided an estimated 9,000 people, including children, with access to safe water and hygiene services in the evacuation shelters. According to their estimations, UNICEF requires over $900,000 to address immediate needs during the next 6 weeks. Some of their services include providing life-saving water, sanitation and hygiene, and child protection services. They are accepting monetary donations as well as necessities such as food or clothing. For more information visit here.
Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA)
The CDEMA is a regional intergovernmental agency focused on disaster management in the Caribbean Community. They partner with other organizations to assist in emergency response and release efforts. The agency is accepting monetary donations to aid in the La Soufriere relief efforts.
St. Vincent De Paul
The society of St. Vincent De Paul is one of the country’s largest charity organizations. Their goal is to help end the cycle of poverty, hunger, and homelessness by providing a variety of services. St. Vincent De Paul can help with transportation, housing, or financial assistance; as well as by supplying clothing, food, and medication to citizens. For more information or to contact the society, visit here.
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