The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has released 150,000 Swiss francs to support the Red Cross relief operations to assist those affected by the devastating floods that have hit Haiti.

More than 600 people are feared to have died and thousands have been left homeless by Tropical Storm Jeanne, which caused flooding, that also destroyed crops, homes and livestock. With the water distribution system severely damaged, access to clean water is urgent to prevent the spread of water-borne diseases.

Red Cross teams are assessing the extent of the damage and the needs of the affected population, and based on their findings, an international appeal for funds is expected to be launched

"Getting access to the affected areas, which have already been hit by serious flooding this year, has made the response more challenging. There is an urgent need for food, drinking water and other basic relief items," said Santiago Gil, Head of the International Federation's Americas Department.

The International Federation is supporting the Haitian National Red Cross by making available relief items such as hygiene kits, family tents, plastic sheeting, and body bags.

In view of the scale of the disaster, the International Federation is working closely with the International Committee of Red Cross and other Red Cross societies already operating in the country supporting the Haitian Red Cross.

Tropical Storm Jeanne was the tenth named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season. The International Federation and National Red Cross Societies in the region had put in place contingency plans for the hurricane season and have been actively assisting those communities affected and will continue to provide support until the hurricane season is over.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT OUR WEBSITE: www.ifrc.org which is updated regularly

For further information, or to set up interviews please contact:
Eva M. Calvo,
Media Officer
Tel: + 41 22 730 43 57 / + 41 79 217 33 72
Duty phone: Tel: + 41 79 416 38 81