repsonding in Libya

partners work following massive flooding

As the death toll continues to rise following the catastrophic September 10 floods in Libya, we long to respond, to help, to be of assistance in any way.

Week of Compassion remains in close touch with our global and ecumenical partners, listening to the reports from the affected areas, discerning the most effective ways to respond in the immediate term, and planning for the long-term recovery sure to come.

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In a recent series of messages from DanChurchAID, a Week of Compassion partner through ACT Alliance, we were grateful to learn that their staff in Libya are all safe and accounted for. They were immediately at work offering support to the extensive rescue and recovery efforts, which remain the region’s primary focus; in fact, local government suspended all work in the city for a few days early last week, with the exception of healthcare and rescue workers.

In addition to the deaths of more that 11,500 to date, and the displacement of tens of thousands more, a major concern for the specialists at work in the area is the relocation and securing of displaced landmines and unexploded ordnance from earlier national conflicts. ​

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DCA is providing its trucks and ambulances, alongside any staff support needed, as well as supplying provisions in emergency shelters and makeshift community centers. This is highly specialized and technical work, in the most unforgiving conditions.
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The work of compassion is careful, and extensive, and will be needed for months and years to come. Week of Compassion continues to pray, listen, prepare, and serve in global ecumenical partnership, to provide the best response with the broadest reach. It is work we are grateful to do together.

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photos courtesy DCA