Australian Red Cross has launched a Global Emergency Fund and ringfenced funds to provide urgent relief and long-term recovery support for communities impacted by the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar.
The earthquake struck near Mandalay on 28 March, followed by a powerful 6.4 aftershock, causing widespread destruction. Homes, bridges and critical infrastructure have collapsed, communication lines are down, and millions are in urgent need of shelter, clean water, and medical care.
Australian Red Cross is working in close coordination with the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) – one of its nine bilateral Partner National Societies under Australian Red Coss' partnership with the Australian Government's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
Australian Red Cross International Executive Director Alex Mathieson said, "Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) alongside the wider Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement were focused right now on search and rescue to deliver life-saving assistance, and support to overwhelmed communities."
"The fact that authorities have called for international assistance tells us a lot about the concern and extent of the disaster."
"Australian Red Cross has been supporting Myanmar Red Cross for many years to strengthen their emergency preparedness and response capabilities. With DFAT and donor support, we've helped build critical infrastructure like emergency warehouses – investments that are now saving lives.
"Myanmar Red Cross volunteers are on the ground providing first aid, rescuing survivors, distributing emergency relief, and reconnecting families. Australian Red Cross is also coordinating with wider Red Cross and Red Crescent support to ensure that both immediate and long-term needs are met.
"Once we move to recovery, it will take months, however we'll be there to support affected communities as they rebuild homes, reconnect families, and recover with dignity," he said.
Funds raised through the Australian Red Cross Global Emergency Fund which are ringfenced to support those impacted by the earthquake in Myanmar will help by:
- Enabling Red Cross and Red Crescent teams on the ground provide urgent relief such as emergency shelter, medical care, clean water, and essential supplies.
- Delivering life-saving assistance, support, search and rescue efforts, and aid to displaced families.
Donations can be made online at redcross.org.au/global-emergency or via credit card by phoning 1800 733 276, 9am to 5pm AEDT.
