April 18, 2009 Dear Friends, As the situation in the Northeast continues to deteriorate, the reports from the ground begin to reveal the true extent of the humanitarian crisis facing hundreds of thousands caught in the conflict zones and in the IDP (Internally Displaced Persons) camps. In addition to the deaths and injuries from the fighting and a general lack of adequate medical & health care and other basic supplies, the threat of malnutrition and starvation are become increasing concerns. Children in particular are the victims when it comes to a lack of adequate nutrition, causing a myriad of diseases and, in some cases, death. Pictures from the affected areas show children with wasted muscles, decreased growth, de‐pigmentation of skin, discoloration of hair, large bellies due to ascites (fluid in the belly) secondary protein malnutrition, protruding eyes, and delayed physical (and psychological) development. Local doctors and health officials have documented and reported on this reality, making a desperate appeal for milk powder and other foodstuffs to feed these most vulnerable segments of society. The food supply in the conflict zones and in the IDP camps has been inadequate and irregular, as those concerned struggle to meet the massive challenges posed by this massive humanitarian disaster. The World Food Programme has been struggling to get food to those in need in the conflict zones, but over 2 weeks passed between the last 2 shipments, taking food supplies to dangerously low levels. Meanwhile, inflation has also caused great heartache, as food prices have soared. With the vast majority of those affected already living at or below the poverty line, those who have been displaced are finding it difficult to survive. Some recent market prices (in 1 kg. increments) include: *Rice Rs.300 ($2.60) *Flour Rs.350 ($3.04) *Sugar Rs.2,000 ($17.39) *Onion Rs.9,000 ($78.26) *Milk Powder (400g) Rs.2,200 ($19.13) *Chili Rs.9,000 ($78.26) There have already been many documented cases of children dying from diarrhea, starvation, and other illnesses related to severe malnutrition. Please help IMHO deliver life‐saving nutrition and supplies to those who are suffering and clinging to life. We need to send another shipment of milk powder to the conflict zones in the next few days to help stave off disaster. Will you be part of this life‐saving effort?? Please donate today either online or by sending a check to IMHO Treasurer, PO Box 61265, Staten Island, New York, 10306. Thank you!
Federal Tax ID Number: 59-3779465 2381 Hylan Blvd, Suite 13B, Staten Island, NY 10306, USA. www.TheIMHO.org Tel: 718-667 3535; Fax: 718-667 3536 Email: contact@theimho.org