WASHINGTON, D.C.–(ENEWSPF)–March 3, 2010. In response to the earthquake in Chile and a request from the Chilean government, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is sending 18 satellite phones and a technician to assist with the dire need for communications equipment. In addition, USAID is sending disaster experts to assist the U.S. Embassy in coordinating the U.S. response and it has put its partners, the Fairfax County Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Team and the Los Angeles County Search and Rescue Team on stand-by, should their assistance be requested.
“This is a tragic situation and we are prepared to assist the Chilean government as they assess their needs and determine what additional assistance is required,” said USAID Administrator Rajiv Shah. “On behalf of the American people, I wish to convey our sympathy, thoughts and prayers to the people of Chile who have been affected by this devastating earthquake.”
USAID will continue to provide additional support as needed.
For more information about USAID’s emergency humanitarian assistance programs, please visit: www.usaid.gov/our_work/humanitarian_assistance/disaster_assistance/.
Source: usaid.gov
