IASSW response to Ecuador Earthquake
IASSW is saddened to hear of the terrible loss of life and property following a 7.8 Mw earthquake in coastal provinces of Manabi, Guayas, Santo Domingo, Los Rios, Esmeraldas and Galapagos, on the northwestern coast of Ecuador. States of emergency have been declared for all these areas, and the cities of Manta, Portoviejo and Pedernales, have been most affected. But even Guayaquil 300 kms away suffered building damage. IASSW is willing to stretch out a helping hand to victim-survivors, but what can be done at a distance is limited. However, there are Spanish-speaking social work educators and practitioners willing to help and will respond to requests.
Please send them to Lena.Dominelli@durham.ac.uk. Lena has developed an Earthquake Virtual Helpline to provide assistance. Also, IASSW members are invited to donate funds to reliable NGOs that are involved in delivering assistance on the ground. The Red Cross and Oxfam are two such agencies. Contact your local branch to do this effectively.
