100 million won donated for flood-hit children in Nepal
All funds to go toward emergency relief including clean water and sanitation
A gesture of solidarity has reached Nepal as the country grapples with climate-driven disaster.
UNICEF Korea announced Saturday that Stray Kids member Bang Chan has donated 100 million won ($72,400) to an emergency relief fund for children affected by flooding in Nepal.
Bang Chan, a member of the UNICEF Honors Club, directed the full donation through the UNICEF Nepal office toward emergency relief efforts for children and families in affected areas, including access to clean water and sanitation, health and nutrition services, psychosocial support, and the establishment of temporary learning spaces.
"I wanted to offer even a small measure of comfort to those going through a difficult time," Bang Chan said. "I sincerely hope that everyone can return to a peaceful daily life as soon as possible."
Flash floods that struck Nepal on Aug. 26 affected approximately 84,000 people across 17 municipalities in six regions. Among them, about 32,000 were children and roughly 1,800 were people with disabilities. The disaster also dealt a severe blow to children's survival and education, destroying 50 water supply facilities and 20 schools.
UNICEF is working with the Nepalese government to restore water supply infrastructure in affected areas, while also distributing clean water and sanitation supplies, therapeutic food for malnourished children, and learning kits for students and teachers. The organization has also deployed professional counselors to provide psychosocial support to children and families experiencing emotional distress from the floods.
"We are deeply grateful to Bang Chan for sharing his warm heart every time children face a crisis," said Heo Geum-ju, secretary-general of UNICEF Korea. "We will do our utmost to ensure that this donation reaches the children affected in Nepal quickly, so they can return to a safe and normal life."
Bang Chan joined the UNICEF Honors Club — a group of donors who contribute more than 100 million won — on his birthday last year and has consistently supported children around the world since.
terry@heraldcorp.com
