In response to the tragic and devastating bushfires in Victoria, ADRA Australia has committed $A150,000 to fund a response in partnership with the government-nominated lead agency, the Australian Red Cross.
ADRA New Zealand is joining the appeal for donations to assist ADRA Australia with their relief efforts in Victoria by establishing a separate fund from within New Zealand for those that would wish to make contributions.
So far the affected areas cover more than 300,000 hectares with some 700 homes destroyed and the death toll rising.
Fire authorities say that fires will take weeks to contain and 500 fire fighters from around Australia are joining the Victorian crews currently at work.
New Zealand fire fighters have offered their services and local New Zealand hospitals are making burns units available to accept victims.
Local fire fighters are reported as saying that the speed of the fire front combined with intense heat has been a major factor in the high amount of damage and loss of life.
To help these victims rebuild their lives CLICK HERE. Select Emergency fund and type “Australian Bushfires” in message area.