Emergency Response to the Bolivia Flood Disaster

As of March 5, 2007, CARE plans to 1. Provide tools and temporary income (cash for work) to affected familias in the Potosí Dept. 5,000 beneficiaries

2. Provide boat, outboard motor and fuel to transport supplies and help with assessment activites in the Beni Dept. 50,000 beneficiaries

-Health issues such as outbreaks of infectious disease including: malaria, leptosporosis, dengue, and yellow fever could very quickly reach epidemic proportions. -While the government is making every effort to respond to the emergency with a coordinated response, coordination at a national level remains weak and requires support although is improving; -Additional international assistance is needed to meet the rising needs of families and individuals affected and should be channeled through NGOs as well as the UN to ensure effective response. -The prognosis for extended rains continue for at least another month in Santa Cruz and several weeks in the rest of the country -Additional food supplies are required, as well as, shelter and long term recovery mechanisms. -Assessment in the isolated department of Beni has not been completed and is hampered by rainfall and lack of access plus limited presence of NGOs although the Civil Defense and the Red Cross are placing the majority of their attention in this area. -The long term effects have not been identified adequately but certainly speak to risk mitigation measures, capacity building requirements for emergency prevention and response and coordination. -Central highland areas such as Chuquisaca (classified as fourth in extent of damage to date) and Potosi (fifth) are not receiving attention and support at this time in adequate levels and due to their increased vulnerability as a result of higher levels of poverty than either Beni or Sta. Cruz populations will be most likely to suffer longer term and graver implications. CARE is well placed to address these issues IF there is additional funding. -Pando will most likely be affected in the next week or so, and CARE should be prepared to respond with water and sanitation support, perhaps tents, as well as shelter support efforts.