Some assistance for Nepal

Following the earthquake which, during the past weekend, hit the territory of Nepal with extraordinary strength, the Holy Father, through the Pontifical Council Cor Unum, has decided to send a first contribution of 100 million dollars in support of the peoples of that land.

This sum, which will be sent to the local Church, will be used in support of works carried out to provide assistance to those who have been displaced and to earthquake victims, and will represent a first and immediate concrete expression of spiritual closeness and paternal encouragement toward affected persons and territories, who Pope Francis assured of his prayer during the Regina Coeli last Sunday (April 26).  Episcopal Conferences and Catholic charitable organizations are already extensively involved in rescue efforts.

According to the data that are currently available, but not yet definitive, there are some 4,300 victims, some of whom are in neighbouring countries; approximately 7 million people have been affected in 34 districts of the State of Nepal; 1 million are homeless and 2 million are children in need of help.  Several locations are isolated and therefore relief has not yet reached them.  The government has also established that approximately 400 buildings have been destroyed.