Red Cross update: China

As search and rescue teams continue to look for survivors, hundreds of Red Cross volunteers are distributing much-needed aid to communities affected by Monday's deadly earthquake in Sichuan province.

"With more than 80 per cent of the buildings in the town of Beichuan destroyed, there are thousands of people left homeless," says Qinghui Gu, regional disaster management delegate and member of a Red Cross assessment team which travelled to Beichuan county, Sichuan.

Red Cross volunteers from nearby Chengdu are on the ground providing help with rescue and first aid, and distributing relief supplies - tents, quilts, water and food - with more aid coming in from surrounding provinces today. Red Cross relief workers are also providing shelter to thousands of people left homeless.

"Food and drinking water are the main priorities needed now," says Mr. Gu. "Medical staff and supplies are also needed to help the tens of thousands injured."

Two Red Cross emergency medical teams from other provinces have arrived, with three more on their way to the disaster area. Many roads remained blocked, making it difficult to get supplies and rescue teams to the affected area.

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