Cyclone Pam devastated the lives of everyone in Vanuatu.
We have have just received these images from the Yachting World Marina in Port Vila – a business which before the cyclone struck employed 52 people. For many it was the only source of income for their extended families.
Elsie from Yachting World Marina in Port Vila writes “Our 34 moorings are not insured - neither would anyone insure the Natangura built Waterfront! Our 52 Staff and families have all had their roofs blown off - and their whole homes blown away; they have nowhere to live - and no food - and we are trying to get them cooking materials to boil their water. Help starts at home and for our 52 staff The situation is dire - and we need help - immediate help.”
Funds pledged by World ARC sailors have already reached over $7,000 plus a further $10,000 from World Cruising. This is being used to provide immediate assistance to the Yachting World employees and their families and will help get the business up and running again.
We have no news from Tanna, but the first aid flights have now reached the outer islands. Groups of yachts in Australia and New Zealand are preparing to set sail for the remoter islands, and World Cruising Club relief funds will be used to pay for supplies of building materials – nails, wires, tools, plastic sheets – which are desperately needed.
Sailors wanting to donate or to assist, should contact Andrew Bishop.