Chile earthquake update

We have just received the following report from SOS Children Chile:

On 5 March, there were a series of strong aftershocks in Concepción and its surrounding areas, the highest was measured at  6.3 on the Richter scale.

In order to ease the post-traumatic symptoms of children and staff, SOS Children's Villages Chile has asked the University of Concepción for psychological assistance. With the arrival of more SOS staff in the affected region, the support for the programmes and the emergency team has been reinforced; SOS mothers and family assistants are receiving special support in their care for the traumatised children.

Direct help for the neighbouring communities has started. According to the assessment of the emergency team, some 600 children will be supported in Concepción. SOS Children's Villages has activated its network with community leaders, institutions of the church and others with the purpose of identifying the most vulnerable families.

There is still a shortage of supplies. The local authorities are handing out food and water rations. On 5 March, a truck delivered water to Concepción which was immediately distributed to people in need. The huge damages to  the infrastructure in the region of Concepción hamper the mobility a lot, many bridges have collapsed and the curfew is still imposed.