Habitat for Humanity seeks funding to help families affected by Jakarta floods

Students cross a flooded street in the business district of Jakarta. REUTERS/Beawiharta, courtesy of Thompson Reuters - AlertNet.

Bangkok, 18th January 2013 – Habitat for Humanity Indonesia has launched an appeal to assist families affected by severe flooding in Indonesia’s capital city Jakarta and outlying areas. According to latest reports by Indonesia’s National Board of Disaster Management*, more than 15,000 people have been forced to leave their homes, and over 100,000 people have been affected by the floodwater.

Torrential rain starting on Wednesday caused rivers to overflow and flooding engulfed most of Jakarta on Thursday. In some areas, floodwater rose to two meters. Jakarta’s governor, Joko Widodo, has declared a state of emergency in the capital until 27thJanuary.

“Habitat for Humanity Indonesia has deployed an assessment team to the worst affected areas, and is preparing to distribute house repair and cleaning kits over the coming weeks. Your donation will enable us to help more affected families. As in previous disasters, we are committed to supporting affected families rebuild their lives and gain access to decent shelter,” said Rick Hathaway, Asia-Pacific vice president for Habitat for Humanity.

To donate, please visit give2habitat.org

The five-year cycle Jakarta floods had been predicted to hit this year; the last, in 2007, killed more than 80 people. Jakarta’s Provincial Agency for Disaster Management** has warned that heavy rains are expected to continue in coming days.

*Badan Nasional Penanggulangan Bencana (BNPB) - bnpb.go.id

**Badan Penanggulangan Bencana Daerah (BPBD)