Saunderton, Bucks, Monday 18th April — Two MapAction volunteers have set off for Ecuador this morning in response to Saturday’s major earthquake. MapAction’s support was requested by the United Nations, following a call for international assistance from the Ecuadorian government on Sunday.
It is anticipated that the team’s initial focus will be to help coordinate search and rescue efforts in the hope of finding more survivors. MapAction’s highly-trained volunteers will also map the needs of survivors, so that responders can target their aid accordingly.
MapAction has considerable experience of having responded to earthquakes, having undertaken major responses to the Nepal earthquakes last year, as well as the Haiti earthquake in 2010.
Interviews can be arranged with MapAction’s Operations Director (Emma Mumford) or Chief Executive (Liz Hughes) by calling 01494 56 88 99. There may also be possibilities to arrange interviews with our Team Leader in Ecuador once the team is established on the ground.