SICHUAN, China, 14 May 2008 -- Two days after the largest earthquake to hit China in a generation, the Chinese Government formally requested the support of the international community to respond to the needs of affected families. There are an estimated 12 million school age children in Sichuan Province. More than 2 million of them live in the most damaged prefectures, according to UNICEF Communication Officer Dale Rutstein, who asserts that it is "no longer possible to keep track of the number of schools and public buildings that have collapsed, burying many children and adults under rubble." In response to today's request for aid, UNICEF China is readying relief supplies with an initial emphasis on health kits, tents and shelter materials, and water and sanitation supplies. Over the next few weeks, it is estimated that approximately $5 million will be needed to fully respond to immediate needs. Funds generated for the response to this disaster will most likely be used for the early relief phase as well as the longer-term recovery and development of quake-affected communities. To read the full story, visit: http://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/china_43935.html
