International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies release initial early emergency relief funds of US $97,000

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has released initial early emergency relief funds of US $97,000 to provide urgent assistance including first aid, tarpaulins and shelter materials, safe water, household items and hygiene kits for 17,700 people over the next month.

Head of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Pacific Office Kathryn Clarkson says it is devastating to see another big cyclone affect Fiji so soon after Cyclone Harold and so close to Christmas.

She says they have a full team of people supporting the Fiji Red Cross Society operations and will be looking to increase their financial support once they get the full picture of the damages.

Fiji Red Cross Society Director-General Ilisapeci Rokotunidau says they are very concerned for the safety of thousands of people who have experienced the brunt of this monster storm.

Red Cross volunteers are currently deployed to provide first aid and relief items such as tarpaulins for shelter, hygiene kits, safe water, backed by pre-positioned emergency supplies.