Caritas responds to flood emergency in Romania
 

Brussels, 15 July 2005. - Incessant rains over the last five days have triggered severe flooding in the eastern region of Moldova. Overflowing of rivers has caused widespread destruction in more than 470 villages, especially in the counties of Bacau, Vrancea, and Galati. 

Reports indicate that five people have died, many more are missing, and 10,000 have been evacuated to schools and other public buildings. Essentials, such as water, food, and blankets, are in short supply.

Upwards of 11,000 homes have been partially or completely damaged. Roads and train lines between southern Romania and the Moldova region remain blocked, and some bridges have been swept away.

The diocesan Caritas of Iasi is assessing needs in Bacau and Vrancea. However, it is difficult to reach all the affected areas since many roads are still impassable. In Galati, local Caritas workers have begun providing flood victims with motor pumps to help clean out wells and cellars.

The diocesan Caritas of Iasi, with the support of Caritas Romania, hopes to begin distributing blankets, mattresses, food, and materials for cleaning and disinfecting houses to those in need over the next few days.

Caritas organisations from the Europe region are supporting efforts in Romania. Caritas international (the international department of Caritas Germany) has made 200,000 EURO available. Caritas Austria has announced, as for the previous emergency in July of this year, a contribution of 15,000 EURO for first emergency aid.