May
13
2009

Swat Crisis: A Plea for Help

Categories:

Pakistan

Pakistan is yet again in a state of war. The horrifying situation in the northern areas of Pakistan seems to be getting intense day by day as the military forces make rapid advancement towards ‘eliminating’ Taliban. There is no clue as to what might be the outcome of the war, but millions of people already have left their homes in search of a safer shelter as a repercussion. According to a UN report, this internal displacement from Malakand Division has broken a fifteen year international record.

It is truly sickening to see millions of our people being homeless and dispirited, without adequate food and shelter. The government has provided relief camps but is insufficient for population of this magnitude. What is needed at the moment is that every Pakistani extends his hand and heart to those in need. The national spirit, unity and valor, which we all witnessed after the earthquake of Oct ’05, is what Pakistan needs at the time.

Chowrangi has done a great job by compiling this very useful list which should be considered by those willing to help:

How you can help:

Besides sending cash through below mentioned charity organizations, you can support by providing following commodities. Please do not donate old/expired stuff. Make sure edible items are hygienic and properly packed.
•    Clothing: Clothes of various sizes, Beddings, Shoes
•    Utensils: Jerricans (large plastic cans that hold 20 liters of water or other liquids), Crockery, Buckets
•    Toiletries: Tissues, Soaps, Dettol (antibacterial cleaners), Towels
•    Food: Rice, Sugar, Flour (Atta), Onions, Potatoes, Cooking oil, Tea, Milk (tetra packs or powder), Safe drinking water, Cooked Food

Medicines:

1. Water purification tablets.
2. Life saving drugs.
3. Vaccines for malaria, cholera, typhoid, influenza.
4. Pain killers including strong ones like morphine derivatives, tremadol, pethadine, kinz.
5. Antibiotics e.g. tetnus, amoxil, gentamycin.
6. IV cannulas
7. IV Drip sets
8. IV drips: normal saline, ringerlactate
9. Local anesthetics (injections)
10. Cotton bandages, cotton.
11. Surgical instruments: e.g needle holders, forceps, tweezers.
12. Suturing materials, Skin staples.

Charity Organizations in Pakistan:

•    Al-Khidmat Foundation: Donate here.
•    Edhi Foundation: Donate here.
•    SUNGI: Who to contact [link], where to donate [link].

More resources can be found at Chowrangi