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The morning of April 25, Nepal was struck by a 7.9 earthquake, devastating the capital city of Katmandu and the surrounding area. The 7.9 quake has killed more than 4,500 people (a number that continues to rise) and is the worst to hit the area in 80 years. Numerous aftershocks continue to ravage the area, reaching magnitudes of 6.6 and causing further damage. The earthquake destroyed historic temples, destroyed houses and caused avalanches in the Himalayas. There are still many people trapped in the rubble of collapsed buildings, as survivors frantically search for loved ones and neighbors. The quake has affected thousands of families, has stretched hospitals to their limits, and has damaged electricity and communication outlets, furthering the need to provide humanitarian assistance.

The Center for Arab American Philanthropy (CAAP) is responding to the crisis by researching organizations providing humanitarian aid to those affected. All of the organizations below meet CAAP’s due diligence standards for charitable donations.

Catholic Relief Services (CRS): CRS is responding and has already committed resources to the relief effort for the victims of the Nepal Earthquake. Partnering with Caritas Nepal, a Catholic organization that provides humanitarian aid, CRS has begun procuring emergency relief supplies such as shelter kits and water, sanitation and hygiene materials. To learn more and donate to CRS’ relief efforts, click this link.

UNICEF: UNICEF, a nonprofit dedicated to helping children that require humanitarian assistance internationally in the wake of emergencies and disasters, is on the ground working to provide critical aid to the affected children and families. Nearly 1 million children are in need of critical aid and assistance as a result of the devastating earthquake, and UNICEF is focusing their relief efforts on saving these children’s lives. To donate to UNICEF’s emergency relief fund, click here.

Red Cross: The global Red Cross network, led by Nepal Red Cross, has mounted an international emergency relief effort to provide humanitarian aid to the victims of the Nepal earthquake. Nepal Red Cross is currently providing first aid, search and rescue, blood to medical facilities and support to first responders. The American Red Cross has committed $300,000 to the operation and is working closely with Nepal Red Cross and the global Red Cross network to coordinate additional support. The Red Cross has an estimated 19,000 non-food relief kits available in Nepal and estimates the total supplies are sufficient to cover 50,000 families. To donate to the Red Cross’ relief fund, follow this link.

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