THE Red Cross has launched an appeal for Samoa, American Samoa and Tonga, to support people affected by the 8.3 earthquake and tsunami that struck on September 29.

Samoa Red Cross and Tonga Red Cross staff and volunteers helped move people away from coastal areas as soon as the tsunami warning was issued and over 200 volunteers have been providing emergency support in the aftermath.

The Red Cross continues to tackle immediate needs by providing food, water, blankets, cooking pots and tarpaulins to those affected, but is now looking ahead to providing safe water until damaged water supply systems are restored, preventing the spread of disease, and reconnecting families who have been separated.

Due to the scale of the Red Cross operation in Samoa, American Samoa and Tonga, the British Red Cross has launched the Samoa Tsunami Appeal, specifically to raise funds to help those affected in the region.

Mike Goodhand

Head of disaster management