On Saturday 3 May, 2008, Cyclone Nargis hit Myanmar (Burma) leaving devastation in its wake. While the death toll is still growing, one thing is clear: those who are left face a humanitarian disaster on a massive scale.
In an effort to assist the relief work of Medecins Sans Frontieres in the region, The Intrepid Foundation, an arm of adventure company Intrepid Travel, has donated $19,000 in assistance.
"I have traveled to Myanmar several times in the past and it's heartbreaking to hear the extent of the destruction," comments Intrepid Travel CEO Darrell Wade, "Intrepid Travel stopped operating trips to Myanmar in 2001 due to its political and human rights issues, but we see this as no reason to withhold aid in this time of absolute crisis."
Carolyn Vaughan from Medecins Sans Frontieres explains the extent of the destruction their teams have seen so far, "In Daala and Twanta, two townships of Yangon with a total population of 300,000 people, MSF teams saw 80% destruction of houses in some pockets as well as meter-high flood waters. In these two areas, MSF is distributing food, water and other essential items for 5000 people."
Carolyn continues, "It is because of the ongoing and generous donations from our supporters such as Intrepid Travel, that Medecins Sans Frontieres is able to draw on its overseas aid fund to respond immediately to this natural disaster with the essential medical and humanitarian care and supplies."
Getting aid into Burma is a difficult process and it's vital that non-government organizations have the funds necessary to urgently assist those affected. Should anyone want to assist in the effort, Intrepid recommends donating to Medecins Sans Frontieres or the Red Cross. More information is available on the Intrepid Foundation website: http://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/
With over 19 years of experience, Intrepid Travel is one of the world's leading small group adventure tour operators. Intrepid offers over 400 adventure itineraries in more than 90 destinations worldwide. Intrepid trips are designed to go off the beaten track, meet the locals and travel in an unconventional way, joining locals on their transport, in their markets and even in their homes. http://www.intrepidtravel.com/
Intrepid Foundation