UNICEF intensifies efforts after second earthquake in Mexico

MEXICO CITY, Sept. 21,  2017 /CNW/ - UNICEF has stepped up its efforts to support children following the second earthquake that hit Mexico in less than two weeks.

"UNICEF has been supporting children in Mexico for many years but, at the moment, the country and organizations like ours face a great challenge," says Christian Skoog, UNICEF Representative in Mexico.

"Our priority in these circumstances is to ensure that children and young people are protected and supported, physically and emotionally. As we strive to identify their needs through our evaluation missions, in close collaboration with Mexican authorities and our civil society allies, we express our solidarity and support to the people of Mexico. "

UNICEF staff specialists have been mobilized to assess the situation of children in the most affected areas of Mexico City, Puebla and Morelos, as of today, and in the coming days, while the organization continues to provide support to girls and children in Oaxaca and Chiapas affected by the earthquake of 7th September.

Through these visits, the teams will determine the type of support that is needed, in terms of water and sanitation, health, education and child protection.

In addition to earthquake response efforts, UNICEF's ongoing participation in national programmes to help vulnerable and marginalized children in Mexico continues amidst these new challenging circumstances.

Unlike the previous instance, the earthquake of 19th September has affected highly urbanized areas during school and work hours, with terrible consequences. Together with partners, the organization is also monitoring and awaiting news of rescues, including of children and young people still trapped underneath the rubble.

"As humanitarian workers, as parents and as human beings, we share the pain of those who have lost their children, as well as the hope of those still awaiting news," said Christian Skoog. "Our hearts are with you and with all of Mexico."

Skoog, who has just returned from Oaxaca, where UNICEF has been implementing programmes on "Child Friendly Spaces" in response to the 7th September earthquake, states that in these situations, children and adolescents have special needs that must to be taken into account when responding to the tragedy, and call on authorities to ensure that these needs remain a priority in ongoing relief efforts.

About UNICEF

UNICEF has saved more children's lives than any other humanitarian organization. We work tirelessly to help children and their families, doing whatever it takes to ensure children survive. We provide children with healthcare and immunization, clean water, nutrition and food security, education, emergency relief and more in developing countries.

UNICEF is supported entirely by voluntary donations and helps children regardless of race, religion or politics. As part of the UN, we are active in more 190 countries - more than any other organization. Our determination and our reach are unparalleled. Because nowhere is too far to go to help a child survive. For more information about UNICEF, please visit www.unicef.ca.

SOURCE UNICEF Canada