Iran: World Vision Tent Replaces Health Clinic

Iran Quake: World Vision supplies a tent to replace a crumbling health clinic

Community health worker Hossein Chahardongi cracks a smile after he and some of the young men of his village successfully erect a World Vision tent.

Smiles beam after a World Vision tent is erected to replace a health clinic.

Hossein admits it was a bit of a challenge as none of his team had ever dealt with a tent quite like it. But after some vigorous discussions and a "free and frank exchange of views" the job eventually got done.

Hossein requested the tent as a temporary replacement for the health clinic at his village of Jarjand.

Following the earthquake in the nearby town of Bam, the clinic suffered severe fractures in the walls, ceiling and a supporting column.

"People were afraid to come in for treatment. I haven't been able to do vaccinations or anything in there," he told a World Vision assessment team visiting the village.

Now thanks to the provision of a tent, Hossein says he can continue the work without fear of the ceiling falling on top of him.

Although surrounding villages escaped the kind of devastation suffered in Bam, many buildings that remain standing suffered major structural damage and are in serious danger of collapse, especially as earth tremors continue at the rate of ten per day.

Hossein says his own home is unsound and while he continues to use it, he does fear for the safety of himself, his wife and four children. Nevertheless he says getting the clinic functioning again had to be top priority.

World Vision New Zealand has now raised almost $450,000 through the Bam Earthquake Appeal. Donations may be made on 0800 80 2000 or through the website: http://www.worldvision.org.nz

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