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ZENIT - The World Seen
From Rome . October 17, 2002.
MADRID, Spain, OCT. 17, 2002 (Zenit.org).-
Caritas-Cuba has initiated an emergency plan to rescue thousands of people
affected by hurricanes Isidore and Lili, sources of the organization reported.
Over 11 days at the end of September, the hurricanes devastated the south of
the island, especially the provinces of Havana, Pinar del Rio, and Isla de la
Juventud. Hundreds of thousands of people evacuated the area.
The local Caritas said the hurricanes seriously damaged or destroyed 37,000
homes, ruined harvests, and disrupted basic services such as health and
education. Caritas-Cuba is coordinating its relief activity with Cuban
authorities and with its own local and international networks.
Aid is centered primarily on food and medicines for evacuees from the Isla
de la Juventud and Pinar del Rio. Other assistance includes repairs to homes,
the setting up of temporary housing for families, and the rehabilitation of
agriculture. Caritas is also helping with parish endeavors.
Caritas-Cuba has appealed to neighboring networks, such as the U.S.-based
Catholic Relief Services, especially in Miami, for emergency assistance. | 
