Humanitarian organization CARE Morocco is contributing to relief efforts for families in the Atlas Mountains that were affected by the Sept. 8 earthquake, with plans to reach up to 50,000 individuals, CARE Morocco announced on Thursday.
“For many years, we have been working with these same communities, supporting their development, women’s financial independence, and the education of young children,” stated Director of CARE Morocco Hlima Razkaoui. “Today, in close coordination with Moroccan authorities, we stand by their side during these times of great need and will continue to support them as they recover from this devastating earthquake and rebuild their lives.”
Wednesday’s distribution reached dwellers of the village of Outghal, part of the Aghouatim municipality, two-hour drive away from the city of Marrakech.
Outghal, located 145 km from the earthquake’s epicenter, suffered severe damage, with over 70% of houses destroyed or badly damaged. Families, many of whom are still sleeping outdoors, received blankets, food, water, and hygiene kits, added CARE Morocco.
“Many of those we work with have also lost their livelihoods. They are farmers, tailors, small-scale olive oil or soap producers,” added Razkaoui. “We will support them in resuming their economic activities, with a particular focus on women and girls.”
CARE Morocco has also begun providing psychological support and aims to provide relief items and longer-term support for recovery and reconstruction to approximately 50,000 people.
CARE has been working in Morocco since 2008 as an explicitly apolitical, independent, and non-denominational organization.