Heavy rains and flooding have affected more than 1.1 million South Americans. In Peru, 567,000 people are without access to safe water and sanitation. Thousands of families are also facing food insecurity and severe health risks. The families most affected are those who were living in poverty before the flooding.  

“The early days following a disaster are the most important because this is when families are in greatest need. By providing safe water and latrines, the spread of disease in these communities can be prevented,” says Kenneth Kim, World Renew’s Director of Disaster Response and Rehabilitation. “Responding to this crisis early, World Renew is reaching out to these families when they are most vulnerable, ensuring that they can get back up on their feet and begin the recovery process.”

Many drinking water sources have been destroyed or contaminated in the flood, leaving thousands in need of clean water. World Renew is already at work providing safe drinking water sources and filtration. With rains expected to persist into mid-April, however, the situation will continue to get worse and thousands more will be affected.

World Renew is requesting increased support for its work in South America, as staff respond to the flooding that has devastated communities in Peru, Colombia and Ecuador.

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PHOTO TOP: Children play in a shelter for people who became homeless after flooding and mudslides caused by heavy rains leading several rivers to overflow, pushing sediment and rocks into buildings and roads in Mocoa, Colombia, April 4, 2017. REUTERS/Jaime Saldarriaga