Rotary clubs worldwide mobilize in support of earthquake-ravaged Nepal

EVANSTON, Illinois, April 29, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Rotary International President Gary C.K. Huang is urging the humanitarian organization's 1.2 million members worldwide to assist the victims of earthquake-ravaged Nepal in any way possible, including contributing to ShelterBox, the international disaster response charity that is Rotary's project partner for disaster relief.

"Rotary members worldwide stand together in expressing a profound sadness at the devastation resulting from this weekend's deadly earthquake in Nepal," said Huang. "As we mourn the thousands of lives lost, Rotary joins other international agencies in providing immediate relief to survivors through our partnership with ShelterBox and mobilizing our expertise to support long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts throughout the country."

A donation of approximately US $1000 will allow ShelterBox to deliver emergency shelter and other lifesaving equipment to a family that has lost everything following a disaster. 

Rotary's 34,000 clubs around the world may also pursue other ways to help including holding local fund-raisers, food and supply drives, and by giving to other established relief agencies.  Rotary clubs in the United States, Malaysia, Singapore, India, Bangladesh and others are coordinating their support for immediate needs such as dry foods, tents, blankets, first aid kits and safe drinking water.

Looking ahead, Rotary will focus on intermediate and long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts.  The experience and knowledge of Rotary members in Nepal will be essential in ensuring that resources are used for projects and programs that address true community needs.

Rotary in Nepal
The Rotary Club of Kathmandu, chartered in 1959, is Nepal's first Rotary club.  Today there are 84 Rotary clubs with a total membership of nearly 2,800 men and women.  Rotary clubs in Nepal carry out a wide array of successful humanitarian initiatives – often in partnership with clubs in other countries -- including water and sanitation projects, medical and dental missions, adopt-a-school programs and reforestation plantings.

About Rotary:
Rotary brings together a global network of volunteer leaders dedicated to tackling the world's most pressing humanitarian challenges. Rotary connects 1.2 million members of more than 34,000 Rotary clubs in over 200 countries and geographical areas. Their work improves lives at both the local and international levels, from helping families in need in their own communities to working toward a polio-free world. For more information, visit Rotary.org.

About ShelterBox
Based in Cornwall, United Kingdom, with 21 international affiliates, ShelterBox is an international disaster relief charity that delivers emergency shelter, warmth, and dignity to people made homeless by disasters worldwide. The agreement with Rotary broadens the charity's volunteer base, enhancing its capacity to respond instantly to disasters while keeping costs low. For more information, visit shelterbox.org.