Help for Australia: Direct Relief is sending 100,000+ respiratory masks...

[Hekate]

https://www.directrelief.org/2020/01/australian-wildfires-prompt-global-outpouring-of-support/

They are a fantastic organization, and work all over the world, usually in underdeveloped countries. They've been gaining a presence in California (they're located here on the Central Coast), and those N95 masks are really important when the air becomes loaded with particulates from widespread fires.

Several days ago there was an OP asking how to help, and some links were provided. I checked DR then, but they didn't have a page up at that time -- now they do. Go to the link for information.

Oh, and please someone kick this for the dawn crowd.

Best of luck to our Aussie DUers, and to all Australians in this terrible time.

[Hekate]

1. Outpouring of support for Australia: Page from Direct Relief

(Our local news station put the number of masks much higher.)

Hundreds of wildfires continued to rage in Australia over the weekend. The death toll continues to rise – to 25 at last count – thousands are left homeless, and countless numbers struggle with respiratory ailments and other fire-related health issues.

While conditions slightly improved over the weekend, experts cautioned that hot, dry conditions will continue to spur the blaze onward this week. Authorities, including Australian prime minister Scott Morrison, have cautioned that the fires could continue for months.

While wildfires are a regular part of the weather cycle in Australia – the season begins every summer – the size and severity of the current crop of blazes is seemingly unprecedented, creating long-term consequences for the country’s wildlife, health, and livelihoods.

Aside from the immediate dangers posed by the wildfires themselves, deteriorating air quality can cause or exacerbate a range of health issues, from respiratory distress to heart attacks. Older adults, young children, and those with existing health issues are particularly vulnerable.

Australia doesn’t generally need assistance during a disaster. The current situation, however, is extraordinary.

Direct Relief is coordinating with a number of Australian agencies and organizations – including the Department of Health, the Department of Environment, Land, Water, and Planning, the Victorian Country Fire Authority, and the Australian Red Cross – to deliver vital supplies.

In particular, the organization is delivering 97,500 N95 masks, which are designed to block minute particles in the air from entering the airways and lungs.

26 pallets containing the masks will leave Direct Relief’s Santa Barbara warehouse today for Australia. The shipment will be transported free-of-charge by Qantas.

https://www.directrelief.org/2020/01/australian-wildfires-prompt-global-outpouring-of-support/

[Duppers]

2. K & R

[BeckyDem]

3. K&R

[Hekate]

4. Kick

[MoonRiver]

5. K&R

[crickets]

6. K&R

[canetoad]

7. Kick

And thank you!