Nepal quake: Mercy Relief to deploy disaster response team, raise funds

SINGAPORE — Mercy Relief is deploying a two-man preliminary disaster response team to Kathmandu, Nepal and dedicating S$60,000 of funds for relief efforts in the aftermath of the deadly earthquake that struck yesterday (April 25). The tragedy has claimed 2,200 lives so far.

In a media statement released today, Mercy Relief said that the team will be sent down to ascertain ground needs and procure an initial batch of relief supplies. It’s main focus would be “to address the pressing needs for shelter, medicine, food, water and hygiene kits”, the statement wrote.

Chairman Michael Tay, in the statement, said that the organisations relief efforts would be directed at shoring up the supply and distribution of shelter, food and water for the survivors.

“Mercy Relief’s rapid response team will have boots on the ground on Monday where a more comprehensive assessment of the needs of the affected communities will determine how we can most effectively assist with their immediate recovery,” said Mr Tay.

The organisation also announced that it would also be launching an urgent appeal for donations nationwide for victims of the earthquake on Monday. The public can contribute through the following modes:

1. Cross cheque to Mercy Relief Limited with ‘Nepal Earthquake Relief 2015’ written on the reverse, and mail to Blk 160, Lorong 1 Toa Payoh, #01-1568, S310160

2. Cash donations at Block 160 Lorong 1 Toa Payoh, #01-1568, S310160

3. Funds transfer to Mercy Relief’s DBS Current Account 054-900741-2

4. Credit Card donation via www.mercyrelief.org ( GIVE page, click on ‘Nepal Earthquake Relief 2015’)

5. Tele-Mercy: 1900-112-1010 ($10 donation), 1900-112-1050 ($50 donation)

The public can also initiate their own donation drives to support’s Mercy Relief’s fundraising efforts, it said.