UNICEF CANADA

Published purpose

On 2 May 2008, the Category 3 Cyclone Nargis made landfall in southern Burma before moving northeast to hit Rangoon leaving widescale devastation in its wake. Humanitarian needs remain high following Cyclone Nargis. The number of people affected by the cyclone is estimated at approximately 2.4 million with close to 140,000 dead or missing. Critical needs of the affected population are shelter, water and sanitation, emergency health, and food. Canada's contribution to UNICEF helps provide a supply of safe water and prevent waterborne diseases in cyclone-affected populations. UNICEF also provides shelter, household items, vaccines and essential drugs to those most affected by cyclone Nargis. Finally, UNICEF focuses on establishing safe environments for children and women.