A public appeal is set to be launched in Jersey to help a community in Nepal rebuild following catastrophic flooding which has caused widespread death and destruction, the Bailiff has announced.
Bailiff Robert MacRae said he hoped Islanders would ultimately be able to support a specific project offering a “meaningful and lasting benefit” once the scale of the disaster – and where Jersey could make the greatest difference – becomes clearer.
Hundreds of people have been killed since flooding began on 26 August, with many still missing and thousands affected across northern and central Nepal.
Homes and roads have been destroyed and essential services disrupted, while difficulties reaching some of the worst-hit areas have complicated the humanitarian response.
“Profound sadness”
The Bailiff expressed his “profound sadness” following the flooding and praised Jersey Overseas Aid – who on bank holiday Monday announced £200,000 in funding – for acting swiftly to support the immediate humanitarian response.
“The scale of this disaster is truly shocking,” he said.
“My thoughts are with all those who have lost loved ones, their homes or their livelihoods, and with the communities whose lives have been changed so suddenly.
“I must commend Jersey Overseas Aid for acting so swiftly to support the immediate humanitarian response.
“At this stage, the priority is providing emergency assistance to those affected and ensuring help reaches those who need it most.”
Appeal planned as rebuilding begins
The full extent of the disaster and its longer-term impact is not yet known.
Mr MacRae said he therefore intended to wait until the immediate emergency had passed before launching a Bailiff’s Appeal, allowing Jersey’s fundraising effort to be directed towards an identified need.
“When we have a better understanding of where Jersey’s support could make the greatest difference, I intend to launch a Bailiff’s Appeal,” he said.
“My hope is that we can support something which will have a meaningful and lasting benefit for a community in Nepal, and help them look towards the future after such a devastating event.”
The appeal is expected to focus on a specific project or area of need where donations from Islanders could make a tangible difference as communities begin rebuilding.
JOA’s money for Nepal was approved less than a week after the disaster – which prompted a pledge of support from the Chief Minister – and will support everything from emergency shelter and safe drinking water to cash assistance and helping people rebuild their livelihoods.
The funding is being provided to the British Red Cross and will be delivered on the ground through the Nepal Red Cross Society.
JOA said it was continuing to monitor the situation and review information from its partners.
Meanwhile, Guernsey is yet to take a decision on whether to give money to Nepal following the country’s recent devastating floods.
