My close friend has lost her town

I direct your attention to the Earthquake affecting Peru's costal towns. A close friend told me that, although her relatives survived, her town (Pisco) is gone. Their homes are destroyed and their livelihoods are in jeopardy. People and businesses in Peru cannot obtain insurance because earthquakes are frequent. Many Peruvians are poor to begin with and have few resources to fall back on.


Early reports of casualties were lower but as the rescue efforts cease, the death toll is over 500, according to the BBC. Here is what this article said about my friend's city:


"As he toured Pisco on Sunday with his Colombian counterpart, Alvaro Uribe, [Peruvian President] Mr Garcia faced angry protesters. 'We need food. We are hungry. There's no water,' a crowd of about 100 people shouted."


The Royal Bank of Canada is accepting donations to help with international relief efforts. I just hope that Peru's needs are not forgotten as Mexico braces itself for hurricane Dean.


If you are interested, there are many ways of giving International or Canadian relief. If you give even a small amount through the bank, it sends a message to your government that this issue is important. If enough voters do so, the administration will be more likely to reserve humanitarian relief for Peru.


Less than a year ago I sponsored a child in Lima. I wonder how he is doing right now.

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