Help Pakistan Now

7.2 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Pakistan

2011-01-19T12:28:00.000-08:00

A strong earthquake measuring 7.2 has hit south-western Pakistan, in a desert area bordering Iran and Afghanistan, the US Geological Survey says. The quake struck at 0123 on Wednesday (2023 GMT on Tuesday), some 55 km (34 miles) west of Dalbandin in Pakistan, at a depth of 84km (52 miles).

It was located several hundred kilometres from the Pakistani city of Quetta and the city of Zahedan, Iran.

In comparison, the 7.6-magnitude Kashmir earthquake of October 2005 killed 73,000 people. Reports are that the quake was felt across Pakistan and as far away as Delhi, India, and the Gulf emirates of Dubai and Qatar.

An automatically generated USGS estimate suggested that 109,000 people in the region around the epicentre could be exposed to "very strong" shaking and "moderate/heavy" structural damage, but none to "severe" shaking or "heavy damage".

Please take a moment to pray for those affected by the quake. May Allah (swt) ease Pakistan's suffering. Ameen.

Every Moment

2010-11-07T11:44:00.001-08:00

Pakistanis with Disability Suffering the Most

2010-10-10T17:08:00.000-07:00

It's estimated that 5-10% of the Pakistani population has a disability. This number is likely higher in reality. From my own visits to Pakistan, I can tell you that individuals with disability are often the silent members among families. Limited by mobility, few are able to even step foot outside their homes.

In a country where around 38 million people live below the poverty line, the burden on those families coping with disability is extreme, particularly when their means of living have been washed away by flooding. Humanitarian aid has rushed to help the flood victims but the focus has remained mostly on the general needs of normal people - such as food, shelter, clean water and medical.

The needs of disabled people have been last on the list of priorities, say aid workers. The disabled can only sit and pray that one of their family members will be able to get some food and share it with them.

'The number of disabled people hit by the floods is so huge, but no one has focused on their needs,' says Asim Zafar, the founder of charity Sayya Association of Persons with Disability (visit www.saayaassociation.com for more information).

"Various forms of disabilities have various forms of needs and consequently various forms of care. Almost everyone, whether international aid organisations or local charities, their focus is normal people. There is a sort of discrimination towards disabled people," Zafar adds.

Wheelchair-bound, Zafar is a living testament to Saaya Association's vision, the 'voice of positive ability'. He recently visited Tangi, Pakistan to distribute wheelchairs, canes, portable commodes, urine bags, clothes and other essential relief aid.

'The biggest problem for most flood-affected disabled people is that their mobility is further decreased at the relief camps,' he continues. "They sit in the scorching heat or intense cold till someone comes to their aid and moves them to some shelter" Zafar says.

Zakia is one of dozens to have benefited from aid from Zafar's organisation. "I was totally helpless, completely depending on my family members,' she says. 'But with this wheel chair I have got a new life. Now I can go around to take care of my own needs, see people and make friends."

Imagine how helpless you would feel if you couldn't move without the help of someone else......

Lend a hand!

Chinese Rescue Team Returns from Pakistan

2010-10-04T12:20:00.000-07:00

Today, a 66-member Chinese rescue and relief team sent to provide immediate assistance to flood ravaged Pakistan returned to China. China sent two rescue and relief missions to flood-afflicted Pakistan since the end of July when floods began taking their toll, said officials from China Southern Airlines Company Limited, which transported the team. Among the 66 members were medical workers, experts from the China Earthquake Administration, rescue soldiers as well as journalists.

In response to the worst flooding in Pakistan's recent history, China's help included monetary assistance, urgently needed relief goods delivered directly to affected areas, a convoy of 101 trucks to the northern parts of Pakistan, two rescue and relief missions for providing medical relief to the victims, four military helicopters for carrying out rescue missions and an additional 200 million U.S. dollars for post-disaster reconstruction besides the previous 320 million yuan (47 million U.S. dollars) worth of humanitarian supplies.

Despite being effected by landslides, China has served as an important ally, that is ready to help whenever Pakistan needs it. For this humble gesture, Pakistan and the world at large sends a special thanks to the Chinese rescue and relief team and the Chinese government.

Proctor & Gamble Provide Pur Water to Pakistan

2010-09-25T12:23:00.000-07:00

Working with the U.S. State Department and the U.S. Agency s for International Development, Proctor & Gamble Co. is providing 28 million packets of Pur water treatments to flood victims in Pakistan. The $2 million effort should provide 280 million liters of clean drinking water in Pakistan.

USAID will provide $1 million, the State Department's Pakistan Relief Fund, which is funded by private citizens, will provide $500,000 and P&G will provide more than $500,000 worth of Pur packets, buckets and filter cloths to treat the water.


A Pakistani man carries a kitten he rescued from the flooded village of Kaipur Nathan Shah village, Sindh province on Sept 18, 2010. Floodwaters continue to rise in parts of the south.

Also, Pakistan is the only site where P & G manufacturers Pur packets. The plant has increased its production of the packets to accomodate for the need in Pakistan.

One Pur packet can turn 10 liters of dirty water into drinkable water. With the flood waters still affecting Pakistan, mllions have been left with unsafe drinking water. Therefore, the efforts of P & G will help Pakistan tremendously.

Children of Pakistan Ask 'Did You Forget Me'

2010-09-21T20:22:00.000-07:00

(Credit: Aaron Favila/AP)

Are you shocked to see this photograph. After seeing it, how do you feel? Were you as overwhelmed as I was, that you had to look away. Though it is hard to see, this picture is a testament to the starvation more than 100,000 children are facing in Pakistan. Let this be a reminder to do what you can. Do it today. Don't wait. What if tomorrow never comes.....

YKKB Distributes Eidi to Kids in Pakistan :)

2010-09-21T01:10:00.000-07:00

Hold fast to dreams

For if dreams die

Life is a broken-winged bird

That cannot fly.

Hold fast to dreams

For when dreams go

Life is a barren field

Frozen with snow.

---- Langston Hughes ----

Eid Gift Goodies to the Kids of Keamari Town, Pakistan

2010-09-20T20:04:00.000-07:00

Thousands of children in Pakistan have lost much these last 2 months. Their smiles have fated as they come to terms with a life of homelessness. Amongst all the sadness was an event aimed at helping the kids forget and show them how to be kids again, even if it was just for a moment. Yousaf, a.k.a YKKB, from PaKDay LA distributed goodies to the kids of Keamari Town, Pakistan on Eid.

Mission 'Bring Back My Smile' could not have been possible without the hard work of YKKB and a team of dedicated volunteers.

Drops of Wisdom

2010-09-20T00:59:00.000-07:00

"You must thank God for all that He has favored you with, you have no good thing, whether outward or inward, religious or worldly, but it comes from Him." [Imam al-Haddad]

A submerged strip of land is pictured from a Pakistani Army helicopter dropping aid in Khairpur Nathan Shah town, in the Sindh province, on Sept. 14. (Carl De Souza / AFP - Getty Images)

Imagine being surrounded by water. Life is too short, so rather than think about what you don't have, be grateful for what you do have!

A Positive Message from the Tennis Court

2010-09-19T20:35:00.000-07:00

A unique pairing between a Pakistani and an Indian, was defeated in the U.S. Open finals to U.S.A. brothers Bob and Mike Bryan. Nicknamed the "Indo-Pak Express", Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi and Rohan Bopanna captured the world's attention at the tournament.

Long after the match ended, one message remained on everyone's minds, especially those present on the stands of the tournament on September 10, 2010, in New York:

“There’s a bad perception that Pakistan is a terrorist nation,” Qureshi told the crowd in 23,000-seat Arthur Ashe Stadium. “We’re a friendly, loving, caring people. We want peace as much as you guys. May God bless us all.”

The message calling for peace around the world caused the Bryans brothers to give a generous donation of their tournament earnings to help the flood victims in Pakistan. One of the brothers said that he got choked up to hear Qureshi's words.

"Many in Pakistan don't have homes and are living on the streets....What they are doing right now is more important than winning the U.S. Open."

Powerful words for the world to live by!

Pak Day LA aid distribution in Sajawal, Sindh

2010-09-16T02:23:00.001-07:00

Pak Day LA representative, Mr Yousaf (YKKB) leading the aid distribution for flood affectees in Sajawal, Sindh.

More donations from around the world

2010-09-16T01:18:00.001-07:00

British Queen makes personal donation to Pakistan flood victims

Microsoft & its employees donate $600,000 to Pakistan

Meet the flood victims of Pakistan

2010-09-16T01:12:00.001-07:00

See the faces of people who have lost everyting:

The Pakistan floods are one of this century's greatest humanitarian disasters. The scale of loss is mind-numbing. This video makes it personal. Please remember these faces. These are not terrorists. They are people like you.

The "Dont" Help Pakistan Campaign:

A tongue in cheek video aimed at the passive observer

Drops of Wisdom

2010-09-11T15:25:00.000-07:00

(Photo Credit: Parivartan Sharma / Reuters)

Am I truly grateful for each breath that I take,
For each and every moment that I am awake?
Do I thank Allah for my restful sleep,
And for the dreams that cause me to weep?

Am I honestly thankful to the Almighty One,
For the early morning mist, the bright, rising sun?
During Fajr prayer, I use my soft prayer mat,
As Allah’s servant, do I appreciate that?

Throughout the day, do I realise,
That Allah, All knowing and the Most Wise,
Gives me what I need and so much more
And that I have so much to be grateful for?

A grandmother’s love, a book of hadith,
The clothes that I wear, the food that I eat,
The book that I should follow, the Holy Qur’an,
Promoting the good and ending the wrong.

So I must ask myself every beautiful day,
Am I truly grateful for each breath that I take,
For each and every moment that I am awake?
Do I thank Allah for my restful sleep,
And for the dreams that cause me to weep?

By Ibn-e-Malik (Voices Issue 7)

Eid: A Day Filled with Joy, Happiness and Reminders

2010-09-10T09:06:00.000-07:00

Wishing you a very Happy Eid Mubarak!

As you celebrate this Eid-ul-Fitr with your family and friends,

remember those around you who can't celebrate!

We have been blessed with mercy and happiness from Allah (swt).

May all your prayers/du'as during this blessed month of Ramadhan be accepted, Insha'Allah (God Willing).

May the peace, mercy and blessings of Allah (swt) always be with you, your family and friends.

Respectfully in Prayers & Du'as always

from

YKKB

Thousands of Pregnant Women in Pakistan at Risk

2010-09-08T16:02:00.000-07:00

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) warned that thousands of pregnant women uprooted by floods all over the country are at a heightened risk of death. The UNFPA estimates that nearly 500,000 women of the 21 million flood-affected people in the country are pregnant. Soon, some 1700 women will go into labour on a daily basis, and more than 250 of them will experience complications requiring lifesaving medical intervention. The situation is all the more alarming given that most flood victims do not have access to proper health services including skilled delivery assistance.

Noor Bano, 32, was anemic and exhausted when she made a 3-hour trek with two small children strapped to her. Bano took shelter beneath a bridge for two days without food or water. Thankfully, Bano was lucky enough to end up in a camp in Sukkur that's frequently visited by a United Nations Population Fund-supported medical team. When it was time, Farzani Sarki, the midwife came to help Bano deliver her sixth baby in the family's tent.

Not everyone is so lucky
The UN estimates that 320 women die for every 100,000 live births in Pakistan, during normal circumstances. This number could rise sharply in the flood-affected areas as women are exposed to trauma, malnutrition and poor hygiene. Since early in August, UNFPA has deployed obstetricians and midwives in 23 mobile teams and 14 health centres in various flood-affected areas.

UNFPA is currently seeking $12.6 million for relief and early recovery activities in the next 12 months. International donors, however, have only pledged $3.5 million to date. While UNFPA continues to support health authorities and non-governmental service providers in flood-hit areas, besides conducting various training courses for the people, there is more that still needs to be done. “We urgently need to scale up the reproductive health care for the flood victims,” said Dr Naseer Nizamani, UNFPA Assistant Representative in Pakistan. “The number of women who still lack assistance is enormous.”

Another sad reality that the pregnant women have to deal with, once they do give birth, is keeping the babies alive and healthy. That's hard to do when you're living in a tent, without enough food and water.

Angelina Jolie Praises Pakistan's Military

2010-09-08T13:49:00.000-07:00

In an interview with BBC in Pakistan today, Angelina Jolie praised the efforts of Pakistan's military. Click here to watch the interview.

Does Helping People in a Crisis Make Them Like You?

2010-09-07T23:22:00.000-07:00

Recent published research analyzed perceptions of victims affected by the 2005 Kashmir earthquake and concluded that "hard-line Islamist charities did little to help despite the publicity they generated". Despite spending millions of dollars on humanitarian efforts in the Muslim world, there is little research to show if aid increases perceptions of America. Some experts are skeptical that humanitarian aid helps make lasting change. Therefore, research by Tahir Andrabi, professor of economics at Pomona College in California helps decipher if it's worth it.

Pakistani army unloads relief supplies
from a U.S. helicopter in Kalam, in
Pakistan's Swat Valley.

"The United States has long been unpopular in Pakistan, but the invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan led to new anger. As well as distrust of U.S. motives in Afghanistan, many Pakistanis do not like what they say is Washington's support for Israel at the expense of the Palestinian people and Washington's past support for military dictators in Pakistan. Regular American missile strikes against militant targets in the northwest are also often cited as a reason."

"The presence of Islamist relief groups in the flood zone has also attracted attention, with officials in both the U.S. and Pakistan expressing concern they may gain recruits on the back of the disaster. Others have said the groups are not reaching enough people to have much of an effect on their support levels."

The magnitude-7.6 earthquake struck October 8, 2005 and killed more than 70,000 people. Pledges totaled $6.7 billion, with $200 million coming from the United States. The U.S. gave one of the largest and quickest responses.

Researcher Andrabi spent 2 weeks last year, along with 70 researchers, surveying 28,000 households in 126 villages in 4 districts of Kashmir. Data was compared to the distance of the home to the fault line. Those living close to the fault line, who had more international aid, were more trusting of foreigners.

The research shows that less than 5 percent of quake survivors reported receiving any help from Islamist charities, regardless of where they were in relation to the fault. Closest to the fault line, 80 percent said the Pakistani army helped them, while 40 percent reported receiving assistance from foreigners and the United Nations. Andrabi said "the militants were a tiny fraction of who came. Nobody remembers them, that's for sure, while everybody remembers everybody else,"

In conclusion, humanitarian aid is always well received.

No good deed is ever forgotten.

Angelina Jolie Visits Pakistan

2010-09-07T20:43:00.000-07:00

Angelina Jolie meets with Zenul Hawa, 64, in the village of Mohib
Bandi, on the outskirts of Nowshera (Credit: Jason Tanner/ AFP/ Getty Images)

Actress and Goodwill Ambassador to the United Nations Refugee Agency, Angelina Jolie visited northwestern Pakistan today, September 7, 2010. The aim of the visit was to draw the world's attention towards the plight of 21 million people affected by the country's massive flooding.

Along with bringing attention to the devastation in Pakistan, Jolie has also donated $100,000 dollars of her own money. In an interview in Nowshera, Angelina said the situation is "extraordinarily complex" and that Pakistan is already giving shelter to millions of Afghan refugees. Pakistan has more refugees than any other country in the world. This is an added burden on a country that already has a weak economy, however it's a responsibility Pakistan has wholeheartedly accepted. Jolie went on to say the need in Pakistan is so great, and will be for a long time.

Wearing a traditional black shalwar kameez and black headscarf with red lining, the photos from Angelina's visit show a genuine concern to hear the pain and sorrow Pakistanis are feeling. As the disaster in Pakistan continues and the media coverage is next to none, Angelina Jolie has the ability and the star power to bring a voice to those who are suffering and badly in need of help in Pakistan.

Don't be moved by the number of deaths a disaster causes. Instead, be moved by how many are affected.

Defense Day Sept 6: A Salute To Pak Army

2010-09-06T21:58:00.001-07:00

Drops of Wisdom

2010-09-06T15:22:00.000-07:00

Pakistanis trying to return to their homes in Sujawat, Sindh
province, on Sept 4. (Photo: Vincent Thian/AP)

Taking pains to remove the pains of others is the true essence of generosity. [Abu Bakr radi Allah anhu]

Pakistani Air Force Flying Overhead

2010-09-06T07:03:00.000-07:00

As the floodwaters are moving through the Sindh province of Pakistan, so have the relief efforts of the Pakistani Air Force. Villagers in Thatta district have been advised to evacuate. However, it’s unclear how many will leave. The connection to the land is so strong that people want to live or die there.

Wing Commander Sabih Wali-ur-Rehman said in an interview with BBC, “They want to stay with their three or four goats and their food supplies. They usually have enough for the year. They don’t want to leave that behind and go to a camp. Nobody there will guarantee them food for that long.”

The Pakistani Air Force has been dropping waterproof bags with 20-kilo (44 lbs) ration of milk, water, dates, and biscuits in the Sindh province. More villages are getting devoured by the Indus River. The floodwaters are now at risk of threatening the sixth largest city, Hyderabad. If the water breaks through the defence system called Kotri Barrage, 2 million people are at risk. For tonight, the barrage is holding up.

The need in Pakistan is so great right now. Wing Commander Wali-ur-Rehman sees this first-hand everyday while flying overhead. “Sometimes they raise up the holy Quran towards the sky, begging for help. I’m just a delivery man. I drop all the aid I have, but I don’t know how many people I may have missed.” However, every little bit helps. Thus, the relief work underway by the Pakistani Air Force is greatly appreciated. Their efforts will not be lost.

Du'a: An Eternal Gift

2010-09-05T21:12:00.000-07:00

Millions of Muslims are observing the last ten days of the holy month of Ramadhan. This is a time of reflection. I ask myself before I ask you to reflect:

Did we do everything we set out to do

Did we give with good intentions...with pureness of heart...with sweetened words

Did we give without expecting anything in return

Did we think what we gave will protect us on the day of Judgment

Now is the time to reflect and then to bring it on our tongues in the form of a du'a (a prayer, a supplication). This, in my mind, is the eternal gift you can give. Ask forgiveness for yourself, your family, and your neighbors. Remember those suffering in Pakistan. Let 's be grateful for all that we have, including the tests and trials we have faced -- If I think about mine, they don't compare to the suffering of the flood victims in Pakistan, or those suffering all around the world. I am thankful for everything. I hope you are as well.

Lastly, I want to leave you with is a hadith narrated by Aisha (RA):

“Once, when I saw the Prophet in a good mood, I said to him: “O Messenger of Allah! Supplicate to Allah for me!” So, he said: “O Allah! Forgive ‘A’ishah her past and future sins, what she has hidden, as well as what she has made apparent.“ So, I began smiling, to the point that my head fell into my lap out of joy. The Messenger of Allah said to me: “Does my supplication make you happy?" I replied: “And how can your supplication not make me happy?” He then said: “By Allah, it is the supplication that I make for my Ummah in every prayer."

[Reported in ‘Sahih Mawarid adh-Dhaman’ (# 1875), and it is in ‘as-Silsilah as-Sahihah’ (# 2254]

****************

أَللّهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ كَرِيْمٌ تُحِبُّ العَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنّيْ

Allāhumma Innaka ‘Afuwwun karīmun Tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni
Translation: Oh Allāh certainly You are most Forgiving, You love to Forgive, so forgive me.

**************

Share with us the du'as (prayers) you will be making in these last ten days of Ramadhan.

(Leave your comments below)

President Obama Approves $33 million in Funding

2010-09-04T14:00:00.000-07:00

President Obama issued a presidential order this past Friday authorizing emergency funds to Pakistan. The president said the use of the Emergency Refugee and Migration Assistance Fund was in the United States' interest. Up to $33 million will go toward the country's crisis.

As the number of flood victims continues to increase in Pakistan, the United Nations now warns that the eastern province of Balochistan is in crisis, where about 2 million people are affected. Mengeshe Kebede, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees' representative to Pakistan, said it's a humanitarian tragedy. Kebede said, "We need to scale up our activities.....we are heading for a major humanitarian disaster".

A sincere thanks to President Obama. Let's hope that the devastating human conditions in Pakistan was enough cause to lend a hand. Sadly, nothing in life comes without any strings attached. Therefore, it is unclear where the $33 million dollars will be spent and how long it'll take for the money to reach those who need it most. However, it is a step in the right direction. For that, we should all be thankful!

Update on 'PIA Life Box Fakhr-E-Alam' Food Packages -- Warehouses are Full

2010-09-04T11:21:00.000-07:00

Due to your overwhelming support, our warehouses in New York, Chicago, Toronto and London are FULL!!! Words can’t express how grateful we are for your support. We asked for your help and you responded. Therefore, we ask that you HOLD all shipments/ drop-offs for the next 10 days. However, this will vary depending on the warehouse location. Please email us (contact info listed below) if you are working on 'Life Box' food packages. PIA has been working around the clock to take as much cargo as possible. Please do not send ‘Life Box’ food packages until further notice.

Here is the latest information from PIA:

FOOD and WATER: At the moment, in view of the dire need of food items, PIA has accorded priority to Life Boxes, as specified on its website www.piac.com.pk. PIA is shipping food and water ONLY at this time.
MEDICATIONS: Please stay tuned. We will let you know when PIA starts taking medications.
TENTS: Please stay tuned. We will let you know when PIA starts taking tents.
CLOTHES: PIA is not accepting clothes at this time. Please stay tuned and we will let you know when they start shipping clothes. (Also, please be conscious about the quality of donations you send. Please do not send used or torn clothing. Clothing builds character and confidence --- so let’s donate items that will make the flood victims feel good, despite the turmoil around them.)

In the coming months, Pakistan will definitely need medications, tents and clothing. We will keep you posted as soon as PIA starts accepting the above items. Your patience is greatly appreciated! Thank you for opening your hearts for Pakistan, in this difficult time.

For more information, you can call or email us at:

East Coast: Wakil Ansari (917) 642-0137 or email lifeboxusa@gmail.com

West Coast: Yousuf Ebrahim (323) 325-6286 or email helppak2010@gmail.com

Visit the web for more info:

www.hpkn.com

www.piac.com.pk/Flood_Relief/index.htm

http://helppakistannow2010.blogspot.com/p/contact-us.html

Drops of Wisdom

2010-09-03T11:55:00.000-07:00


A Pakistani flood victim sits inside her makeshift tent. (Mohammad Sajjad / AP)

"Do a good deed,

Throw it into the sea,

If the fish don't know,

The Creator will."

The Children of Pakistan

2010-09-01T17:19:00.000-07:00

Among the thousands of human tragedies caused by the flooding in Pakistan, are the children. Nine million children are most affected by water-borne illnesses spreading because of the floods, says the World Health Organization. Parents fought desperately to save the little ones from flooding, only for them to be lost to lack of clean water and sanitation and access to medical care.

Scared...Hungry...Thirsty...

Stunned.....Shocked.....Worried.....

These are emotions you wish children don't ever feel. Sadly, playtime has been cut short.

He Who Has Hope Has Everything

2010-08-31T05:25:00.000-07:00

18,000,000 million people affected x $10/day = $180,000,000

$180,000,000/day x 30 days = $5,400,000,000

5 billion dollars to support 18 million people on $10 (about 850 rupees) a day for one month

Number of homes damaged: 1,237,493

If give each homeowner $5,000 to rebuild(about 425,000 pakistani rupees)

1,237,493 x $5,000 = $6,187,465,000

Amount of funds collected thus far: $291,953,794

Amount required: $459,724,847

If my math is correct, do you think the above amount required is enough to help 18 million people? If you ask me, I couldn't live in a tent for more than a day. If I lost everything - my home, my family, all my belongings -- what would I need in order to survive?

We are all people. Our needs are the same. Some things you just can't put a dollar amount on. Pakistan has lost much. What the people are most at risk for, is losing "hope". I am reminded of an Arabian proverb: He who has hope has everything. So, Pakistan may be worlds apart from where you and I are. They may be completely opposite from you. However, they too, are people -- who think and feel the same as you do. So give someone something to hang on to! Give someone a reason to live! Send them a 'Life Box' Food Package.

(Stay tuned for a detailed post on how to make and send a Life Box. Also, click on the 'Videos' tab to get instructions from Fakhr-E-Alam about the PIA Life Box. Please feel free to leave your comments and/or questions below.)

What Would You Save?

2010-08-29T15:35:00.000-07:00

In the blink of an eye,

everything is gone.

People left with what little they could..

blankets...clothes...food...

One man tied a chicken around his neck when he had to swim to higher ground (Photo courtesy of BBC)

If it happened to you, what would you do? What would you try to save? (Please leave your comments below)

A Pakistani boy swims as he tries to keep his food dry in a flooded area near Basira village in Punjab on Aug. 22. (Photo courtesy of: Pedro Ugarte / AFP - Getty Images)

Heartfelt Efforts of United Arab Emirates for Pakistan

2010-08-29T10:57:00.000-07:00

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) held a telethon, called Awnkum, or "Your Help" to raise Dh100million (approximately $27.3 million) for Pakistan flood victims. Organized by UAE's Red Crescent Authority (RCA), television presenters, actors and clerics from UAE hosted the three-day telethon that began on August 26, 2010.

At last count, Dh72million has been raised. UAE will be extending the telecasting of the telethon in order to reach the goal of Dh100million. Broadcast on 10 different channels, including Sama Dubai and Dunia al Fujairah, the campaign, called Awnkum, or “your help”, will feature a number of celebrities such as actors from Bab el Hara and Ma Asa’ab al Kalam shows as well as Muslim clerics and ambassadors.

If you live in the UAE, here's how to donate: Telethon hotline is toll-free 800RED or 800733.

To read more, click here. Also, visit www.thenational.ae to read more about the efforts by UAE.

Sincere thanks to UAE for their efforts! Together, we'll show Pakistan they are not alone!

If I Had a Million Dollars..

2010-08-28T11:01:00.000-07:00

In the last few weeks, several people have told me "If they only had a million dollars", they would keep a little for themselves and donate the rest. What happens if we never earn a million dollars? Do we sit and wait? Do we become numb to our surround and carry on with life as if nothing happened? Do we close our eyes?

During a speech entitled "Turning Good Intentions into Positive Actions" at the University of California Berkeley, Former President Clinton said the world is more unequal, more unstable and more unsustainable. "We are interdependent on each other ---this is not a philosophy that is left-wing but more embracing ....Divorce is not an option (from the world that is)...What we do affects us and others around us...So do things that increase the positive and decrease the negative forces of interdependence..."(The video is a bit long but well worth it -- listen to it in bits and pieces.)

If we choose, we have the capacity and ability to do all the things, that we think only money can buy. The question is not how much you give, it's that you gave! Give with whatever you have. During the fundraiser "Hope for Haiti", hosted by George Clooney and others, $66 million dollars was raised. The majority of that money was from people texting "HAITI" giving $10 pledges or people going online and giving money. That's the power of our interdependence --- the sum of the whole is more than the sum of one!

The world, including the US, is facing much economic strain -- now more than ever, we have learned how to stretch our pennies. A little does go a long way. So keep your eyes open, see the pain and suffering around you, and let your heart be pushed into action! Start saving those pennies.

An Alarming New Development - Malaria

2010-08-27T12:42:00.000-07:00

A new threat has emerged as the flood recedes. Malaria is increasing every day as the water makes way for mud and mosquitoes. World Health Organization (WHO) experts say malaria cases in three Pakistan provinces - Punjab, Balochistan and Sindh, are increasing at an alarming rate. Half of the 60,000 cases reported on August 23 were detected in just six days. Reports from the a district hospital in Muzaffargarh are that 30% of all new patients admitted are suffering from Malaria.

In response to increasing disease, 21 diarrhea disease centers operating, through funding from USAID/OFDA, in affected districts of KPK, Punjab and Sindh provinces. On August 23, 2010, out of the 101,925 patients treated in the flood affected districts, 5% (n=4,966) of cases was related to malaria. Also, the number of cases of suspected malaria is rising in Balochistan and Sindh provinces compared to KPK and Punjab. During the last 24 hours, the number of cases reported from suspected malaria comprised 17% of patients' consultations in Balochistan and 11% in Sindh. Sadly, this trend is likely to increase dramatically over the coming days.


Men load medicine from a WHO warehouse in Islamabad. WHO has delivered medicine and supplied to treate about 2 million people. But more is still needed.

What is Malaria?

Etiology (cause): A parasite that's transmitted by mosquito bites.
Symptoms: moderate to severe shaking chills, high fever, profuse sweating, flu-like symptoms, and anemia
Diagnosis: malaria blood smear (look at it under the microscope!), enlarged liver or spleen (because that's where the parasite goes first before it enters the bloodstream and into red blood cells.
Treatment: Chloroquine, Quinine sulfate, Hydroxychloroquine, Mefloquine, combo of Atovaquone and Proguanil. Resistance has lead to drugs being ineffective.
- No vaccine yet - still under research

I know I'm going overboard with the medicine stuff. The key is that malaria is a major disease hazard in warm climates. The CDC estimates that 300-500 million cases of malaria each year, and more than 1 million people die. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Pakistan has been classified with a moderate malaria prevalence. The disease causes at least 50,000 deaths out of an estimated 500,000 reported cases of malaria each year. The flooding and unhygienic conditions has the potential to cause an epidemic.

What you can do: donate to the World Health Organization (www.who.org) so that more medications can be sent to Pakistan. Also, donate to Doctors Without Borders (www.doctorswithoutborders.org).

Stay tuned as I'll do a similar assessment of cholera --- an imminent threat.

Drops of Wisdom

2010-08-27T01:52:00.000-07:00

Whatever you have in your mind: Forget it!

Whatever you have in your hands: Give it!

Whatever is to be your fate: Face it!

- Abu Sa'id -

Nasiba, 3-months-old, sleeps in a hammock while taking refuge from the flood with her family in a classroom in Sukkur, Pakistan, Aug. 25. (Courtesy of Akhtar Soomro/Reuters)

Sami Yusuf: Hear Your Call

2010-08-25T22:34:00.000-07:00

Sami Yusuf, a British composer, singer and musicians is a voice known throughout the world. As a devout Muslim, Sami sees song as a means of promoting the message of love, mercy, peace and tolerance. Here's a video dedicated to the Pakistani flood victims:

Please donate to the Pakistan flood relief effort by purchasing this single. It's only $1.99! Proceeds from Sami's single 'Hear Your Call' will help Save the Children's relief efforts in Pakistan. Click here to visit Sami Yusuf's website or go to www.samiyusufofficial.com/pakistan/.

"Give me your hand my brother

I will not let you go

Please don't look back my sister

I swear I hear your call

Give me your hand my brother

I will not let you fall

Please don't look back my sister

Cause I swear I hear your call"

A Salute to the Men in Uniform

2010-08-23T22:20:00.000-07:00

A unique partnership between the Pakistani Army and the U.S. military, is working around the clock in Pakistan. The men in uniform have gone where no one else can. The U.S. department of state gave the following information today in a press release:

"The U.S. also is providing millions of dollars of additional in-kind and technical assistance. We are expanding pre-existing programs in flood-affected areas, providing temporary bridges, and mobilizing significant U.S. military and civilian resources to rescue victims of the disaster and deliver needed supplies. U.S. military and civilian aircraft continue to support flood relief operations. Through August 22, these aircraft have evacuated 7,835 people and delivered more than 1,600,000 pounds of relief supplies."

"As Secretary Clinton announced August 18, the U.S. government, through the Department of State, has established the Pakistan Relief Fund for all to join in the tremendous relief, recovery and reconstruction effort. Individuals, corporations, and other organizations can send much needed help to the people of Pakistan by contributing to this fund at www.state.gov. In the U.S., individuals can send $10 through mobile phones by texting “FLOOD” to 27722."

While President Asif Zardari has been sleeping peacefully in his home, some 65,000 Pakistani Army troops have been working day and night in rescue and relief operations. It's estimated that more than half a million people have been rescued thanks to the Pakistan Army. With 55 helicopter from Pakistan, and 19 U.S. helicopters (as late as August 13, 2010), the rescue mission has reached many stranded Pakistanis. Also, the number of boats used in the operation is estimated to be about 912. The Pakistani Army has also dropped 4,500,000 kg of food and goods at various flooded areas.

Thus far, a total of 440,928 halal meals have been delivered to civilian and military officials in Pakistan via the U.S. Air Force airlift. The U.S. has also kindly delivered the following items to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA): 18 Zodiac rescue boats, 6 water filtration units, 10 water storage bladders, 30 concrete-cutting saws, 12 pre-fabricated steel bridges and a 25kw generator.

A sincere thanks to the men in uniform, to the U.S. military and the Pakistani Army. May you be successful in serving the 20 million Pakistanis affected by the flood.

Drops of Wisdom

2010-08-21T23:10:00.000-07:00

Pakistani woman floating in water in a pan!!!

"The shortest distance

between a problem and its solution is the distance between your knees and the floor. The one who kneels to Allah can stand up to anything."

You are powerful beyond measure.

Rise up and lend a hand!

How to Make Food Packages

2010-08-20T15:07:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Fakhar Alam, here's a video (in English and Urdu) with detailed information about making food packages to send on PIA FREE of cost:

What you have is more than you know.
Give without thinking.
Do what can, with what you have.

Ways You Can Help

2010-08-20T01:51:00.001-07:00

New Organizations have been added and information updated on Good Ways to Help Victims of Pakistan Floods. http://bit.ly/bn9ajq

Shattered Dreams

2010-08-19T10:23:00.000-07:00

The American Academy of Pediatrics sent a press release today to thousands of Pediatricians in the U.S. about the lives of millions of children.

At the International Pediatric Association Congress of Pediatrics in South Africa this month, the Pakistan Pediatric Association (PPA) reached out to the Academy American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) for assistance. The AAP has been working for many years with its colleagues in Pakistan to help children and families in Pakistan.

Thanks to gifts made to the AAP Friends of Children Fund's disaster relief account, the AAP is able to pledge immediate aid to the PPA, to help children and families. The AAP Friends of Children Fund for disaster relief has already committed $10,000 for Pakistan.

Make your donations online at the Friends of Children Fund donation page. Or call 888-700-5378 and make your donation over the phone. Please direct your gift to "Friends of Children Fund -- Disaster Relief".

The AAP is racing against the clock to reach children and families in desperate need of help.

Homes swept away,
No food,
No water,
Streams of tears,
Fear in their eyes,
Hopes and Dreams,
Shattered.

Fakhar Alam Appeals to the World

2010-08-19T00:44:00.001-07:00

Are You Thirsty?

2010-08-18T23:33:00.000-07:00

It's hot this summer. We have to drink more to keep from getting dehydrated. Imagine what would happen if every faucet you turned on was dry. We so often overlook the small things in life. Having water doesn't sound like a lot. In reality, without water, we are doomed.

Millions in Pakistan are struggling to get exactly what we overlook in our lives ---- clean drinking water. In a recent press release, UNICEF indicated it is struggling to maintain its water and sanitation operation. UNICEF is providing clean water to 1.3 million people a day. As we know, the flood has devastated more than 15 million people.

Here is what Martin Mogwanja, UNICEF representative in Pakistan had to say about the current situation: "Providing clean water and adequate sanitation is key to the survival of millions of flood affected people in Pakistan. In terms of numbers of people needing life-saving assistance, this emergency is bigger than the Tsunami, Haiti, and the last Pakistan earthquake put together.”

Furthermore, Mogwanja said, "We urgently need to scale up the distribution of water. If we are not able to do so because of lack funding, water-borne diseases such as cholera, diarrhoea and dysentery will spread and begin killing affected populations, especially children, already weak and vulnerable to disease and malnutrition", added Mogwanja.

To donate to Pakistan relief efforts, visit: http://www.supportunicef.org/site/pp.asp?c=9fLEJSOALpE&b=6161181

For further information, please contact:Patrick McCormick, UNICEF Media, New York,
Tel + 1 212 326-7426,
pmccormick@unicef.org

Marco Jimenez Rodriguez, UNICEF Media, Geneva,
Tel + 41 22 909 5716,
mjrodriguez@unicef.org

Text "SWAT" to 50555

2010-08-18T10:41:00.000-07:00

The U.S. Department of State has released the following information:

How You Can Help: Text "SWAT" to 50555; $10 goes to fund for flood victims

		So, pick up the phone and dial now!

Yahoo News: How to Help Pakistan

2010-08-18T02:15:00.000-07:00

The yahoo news blog has posted an interesting article entitled: "Pakistan Flood How to Help". While the magnitude of this disaster has not been fully assessed, the number is greater than the 2005 South Asia tsunami (5 million), the 2005 South Asia earthquake (3 million), or the 2010 Haiti earthquake (3 million).

Here is a list of organizations identified by yahoo news as working on relief and recovery in the region:

Church World Service
Distributing food packages and shelter material for families affected by the floods in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces. Click here to donate.

International Rescue Committee
Bringing help to victims of the monsoon floods. Click here to donate.

Islamic Relief
Carrying out an emergency campaign to aid the victims of the floods. Click here to donate.

Oxfam
Conducting emergency aid effort for the victims of the flood. Click here to donate.

Save the Children
Providing humanitarian relief in the shape of emergency health care and provision of non-food items and shelter. Click here to donate.

UNICEF
Providing assistance in the areas of water and sanitation, health, and nutrition. Click here to donate.

World Food Programme
Mobilizing resources to make sure needs in Pakistan are met as quickly as is humanly possible. Click here to donate.

World Vision
Providing a rapid response in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (former North West Frontiere Province) and Punjab. Click here to donate.

To read the whole article, visit this link: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ynews/ynews_wl3431.

What it Looks Like Right Now

2010-08-17T21:55:00.000-07:00

On July 29th, 2010 a massive flood hit Pakistan.

PEOPLE AFFECTED:
According to the latest Government estimates, the number of people directly affected by the floods are 15.4 million, and the number continues to rise. This is more than the number of people affected by the 2005 South Asia tsunami, the 2005 South Asia earthquake and the 2010 Haiti earthquake combined. As you know, the Pakistani government does not have the capacity to cope with all these people.

DEATHS AND INJURED:
The official death toll has risen to 1,402, with 2,024 people reported as injured.

LIVE STOCK & POULTRY:
Over 200,000 livestock have been lost, in addition to up to 100% poultry losses in some districts.

DAMAGED HOUSES:
Over 893,662 houses are now reported to have been either damaged or destroyed.
This is twice the number of those destroyed in Haiti.

DAMAGED SCHOOLS:
5,457 schools have been damaged or destroyed across affected areas, of which 4,419 are in Punjab and Sindh. 4,911 schools have been converted into IDP shelters.

DAMAGED HOSPITALS:
Out of 1,167 health facilities, 189 health facilities have either been damaged or destroyed. There is an urgent need to restore health facilities damaged or destroyed by the floods.

Healthcare Needs in Flood affected areas:
- Skin diseases (113,045 cases recorded through medical consultations),
- Acute watery diarrhea (86,671 cases)
- Respiratory tract infection (83,050 cases)
Up to 3.5 million children are at risk from water-borne diseases

CURRENT MEDICAL RESPONSE:
Essential drugs and medicines have been distributed to Ministry of Health and cluster partners, covering the needs of 1.8 million people. This includes 179 emergency health kits, 152 cholera kits, 700 vials of anti-snake venom and 1.8 million water purification tablets.

SHORTAGE OF FOOD:
50% of households reported having no food for an entire day.

INTERNATIONAL RESPONSE:
International medical teams are now arriving in the country. Teams have arrived from:
      o Indonesia,
      o Sri Lanka
      o Jordan
      o Hungary
      o U.S.A.
      o Italy

PAKISTAN GOVERNMENT RESPONSE:
Over 60,000 troops are involved in flood relief operations trying to assist people. Six helicopters and 200 boats are supporting evacuations but that thousands are still trapped in flooded districts.

FINANCIAL NEEDS:
The United Nations has now estimated that Pakistan will need billions of dollars to recover from its worst floods in 80 years. The U.N. has just launched an appeal for $459 million in immediate aid. The World Bank said it had agreed to provide Pakistan with a loan of 900 million dollars. HOWEVER, the impact of the disaster on the economy is expected to be "huge" and billions will be needed to recover from this disaster.

As of 16 August, only 32% of funding requirements indicated in the Pakistan Initial Floods Emergency Response Plan (PIFERP) have been covered (US $148.1 million out of total requirements of US $459.7 million).

The United Nations has announced a further allocation of US $10million from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), in addition to the US$16.3 million that the CERF has already contributed.

OUR IMMEDIATE FOCUS: This is where your help comes in!
Our focus will be on the immediate humanitarian relief needs to keep people alive an give them the basic minimum to survive.

IMMEDIATE RELIEF SUPPLIES NEEDED:
    1. TENTS*
    2. MEDICATIONS*: Antibiotics, pain killer, bandages, wheelchairs, antivenin
    3. CLOTHES: For any age. Make sure they are in usable condition.
    4. SHOES: Any size. Make sure they are in usable condition.
    5. BLANKETS: Make sure they are in usable condition.
    6. CANNED FOOD: Must be halal and have long shelf life.
*These items are most important items.

Every little bit helps. Act now. Don't wait. Time is running out.

Map of Affected Area

2010-08-16T21:11:00.000-07:00

What You Can Do

2010-08-16T00:17:00.000-07:00

The United Nations has now estimated that Pakistan will need billions of dollars to recover from its worst floods in 80 years - further straining a country already dependent on foreign aid to prop up its economy. Over 60,000 troops are involved in flood relief operations trying to assist nearly 14 million people who are now affected by the flooding. The U.N. has just launched an appeal for $459 million in immediate aid.

The Organizing Committee of PAK DAY LA has planned to work together with the community to provide efforts in response to the catastrophe in Pakistan. The Floods have left many people homeless in this month of Ramadhan. We need your support now more than ever to help provide clean water, food, medicine and tents to our affected brothers and sisters of Pakistan.

Please open your heart and donate generously to this cause and directly contact the members listed below for your generous support. Your support will go a long way. Updated information and updated statues on the conditions will InshAllah be provided to each of member of this group.

Please donate generously and contact the following people with an open heart.
Ismail 310 621 2807 Sameer 714 932 5590
Zubair 310 213 9701 YKKB 310 770 1904
Majeed Shaikh 562 965 6770

Please visit this link to see the big picture and to see what our land has become.

http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/2010/08/continuing_pakistani_floods.html?camp

Pakistan Needs You

2010-08-16T00:12:00.000-07:00

To all you Pakistanis all over the world, our country is unquestionably faced with the worst crisis of all time. I cannot express the grief and the sorrow that I am witnessing.

I want you all to understand that this is worst then the 2005 earthquake. Do not use the death toll to quantify the scale of the disaster. Believe me the misery and the pain is much much more. The aftermath of the floods will be far more devastating then the floods themselves. Today official figures claim 20 million displaced affected people, but this figure can take a severe climb. As I write this secondary flood warnings are flashing on all local news channels.

Tearful Stories of the Aftermath
I want you to know the story of Mehmood Dost Khan. A middle class businessman of Naushera, Mehmood took refuge on his double story house roof top. At night when the flood water exceeded his roof, in a blink of an eye his two year old son and 5 month old daughter along with his wife were swept away by the raging current into the darkness of the night. All night he screamed there names and cried. He has not seen them since. He remains in a state of denial. The bodies have not been found. Local army officers tell me the bodies could have traveled as far as 200 kilometers.

I want you to meet Tayyaba Bibi, who was found dangling by a tree. She is a 68 year old widow, who remembers that at sunset she climbed the roof of her house, with her son and pregnant daughter in law. Then in a flash they were dragged under water and she lost consciousness. She was rescued by the Pakistan Army, but to date there is no news of her family.

I want you to know 8 month old Ahmed, who died of hunger in his mother’s arms, waiting for rescue boats or helicopters that arrived at their location 6 days later. It was a group of 16 stranded on a small patch of
higher ground.

I want you to imagine the pain of those parents who are totally helpless sitting on road sides with their children. In their eyes there is pain, horror and most of all despair. They do not know where the next meal is going to come from, if at all.

The Challenge We Face
Pakistan is faced by the most unbelievable task. These floods are a challenge to humanity. I want you to understand that the real disaster starts now.

Visit any market in Pakistan and you will witness two things. The rise in prices of food items due to Ramadan, and a second escalation of food prices due to the floods. Yes there many who want to profit from this disaster.

Millions are displaced and awaiting food supplies while you read this email. They are desperate, vulnerable and hungry. They need food, they need shelter and they need medical attention.

Remember we all have to die and we are all answerable in the afterlife. These men women and children are asking for help through their silent screams. You can choose to listen and do something about it, or delete this mail and forget about it.

Ask yourself one thing. Could this not happen to any of us? Is Karachi, New York, London, Dubai protected from earthquakes, floods or other disasters? Truth is it can happen to anyone of us. It could have been you and me who could have lost a loved one in raging river waters. It could have been you or me standing in the middle of nowhere praying for a helicopter or boat to take us to safety. It could have been our child that died of hunger. Pause and think.

We have to rise again. All of us. The task this time is much bigger and deadlier than the 2005 earthquake.

We must build food cycles, so that a constant supply can be made to the hungry people. You, the overseas Pakistanis have to help us build food stocks so that there is no food shortage, and that the profiteers are not
allowed to escalate local food prices, which will burden the other 70 percent poor population of Pakistan.

Friends I am merely a human being like all of you. I am not perfect. I am not a very religious man. But I feel the pain and misery of others, and I am constantly haunted by the fear that this could have been us.

Plan of Action:
1. Build food cycles by sending food items to Pakistan.
2. Create shelter by sending all weather tents.
3. Set up medical patrol volunteer teams with plenty of medication.

The rehabilitation, reconstruction is a far more daunting task, and it is best left to the government.

Step 1:
Get a carton box size 15 x 15 x 12. This size has been chosen because it gives us the optimum volume to weight ratio for our purpose.

Step 2:
Fill it with the following:

1. Two 1.5 liter bottles of water.
2. Two packs of sweet biscuits.
3. 12 packs of 200 ml to 250 ml juices.
4. 6 small packets of potato chips.
5. 2 bars of anti germ soap
6. 1 small bottle of insect repellant.
7. 1 box of dates.
8. 1 box of chocolates.
9. 1 sachet of glucose and vitamin energy mix ( ORS)
10. 1 liter carton of milk.

Step 3:
Pack this with extreme love and care, and take this box to a PIA cargo office. All this cargo will be transported absolutely free of cost on priority by PIA. As soon as it arrives at an airport in Pakistan, it will
be cleared by customs as a priority and immediately handed over to the Pakistan Army and very relevant NGOS like the Red Cross and NCHD. Note the cargo, once on board a PIA flight will reach the affected recipient with 36 hours.

Remember the severity and the magnitude is so much that every box counts. If we can build a cycle then nothing like it. But remember requirements will change in the next 30 to 40 days. However, the box size will remain the same.

Step 4:
Also please send as many all weather tents as you can.

Last Important Step:
Finally please do not send used clothes. Do not send irrelevant donations. Most of all NO MONEY. I have set up this system so that every little bit counts. Let’s make it happen. The logistics are there and you know what to do. You will see me on and off on various TV channels. I will update you all step by step. PIA is our back bone in this operation. If at any stage you have any complains with the PIA people please call or email the admins/officers or this site. All of your request will be forwarded hourly and daily basis.

Agey Barhein... Hum per Qarz hey Pakistan Ka...

Time to rise
Fakhr Alam & Team