Kiwis applauded for generosity on World Humanitarian Day

Kiwis applauded for their generosity on World Humanitarian Day

19 August, 2014

New Zealand aid organisations who work in disaster relief and emergency management are thanking New Zealanders for their generosity towards humanitarian work around the globe on World Humanitarian Day today (19th August, 2014).

Chair of the NGO Disaster Relief Forum, Ian McInnes says “Over recent months, the humanitarian landscape has become more complex. Scenes from Iraq and Gaza have regularly featured on our televisions and websites”.

He says New Zealanders have been unhesitating in their support for humanitarian efforts in these disaster zones. “We sit isolated by distance and culture from some of these events yet Kiwis have it in their hearts to support humanitarian efforts.”

New Zealanders donate around $170 million a year to development NGOs and a large slice of that money goes to assisting in humanitarian efforts to bring relief to typhoon, flood and earthquake survivors, as well as those displaced by conflict.

Mr McInnes says, New Zealand NGOs are committed to responding to the needs of communities affected by humanitarian events.

World Humanitarian Day celebrates the efforts of aid workers who often work in high - risk environments.

-ENDS-

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