1 June 2006
East Timor/Timor Leste:
Children traumatised and in shock
Images By Kirsty Griffin
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40,000 people are believed to have fled Dili as a result of the violence and arson attacks on the city, with many
thousand left homeless. ChildFund estimates that 65,000 displaced people, a large number of which are children, are
living in several camps established in churches and around the air and sea ports.
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ChildFund has concerns over the conditions in these camps, which are deteriorating due to rain, overcrowding and growing
tensions. Several aid agencies are assisting with food rations, drinking water and shelter items; however there is a
growing need for hygiene and sanitation intervention.
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“ChildFund’s greatest concern is for the children, many of whom are deeply traumatised and in shock following their
exposure to the recent violence and the dislocation from their homes and families. Homes and schools have been damaged
and many children are distressed by the loss or absence of family members,” said Jane Edge, ChildFund Regional Director.
ChildFund is addressing these urgent needs by establishing Child Centred Spaces within these camps, providing safe
havens for children. These spaces give children increased chances of survival and protection from abuse and
exploitation, as well as opportunities for education and recreation. The Child Centred Spaces will also offer trauma and
grief counselling to those children severely affected by recent violent events. ChildFund is also aiming to provide
clean and accessible water and systems for the safe disposal of human waste within the camps.
ChildFund hopes to reopen its National Office in Timor Leste with 48 hours in order to begin dispensing aid. It is one
of the largest aid and development agencies based in Timor Leste, committed to the country since 1999.
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Over 1,000 children from Timor Leste are sponsored by caring New Zealanders through ChildFund New Zealand. Each year
this represents over $400,000 in aid for projects including schooling, healthcare, water and sanitation, nutrition, food
security and livelihood interventions.
Donations can be made to ChildFund’s East Timor Appeal by calling 0800 223 111 or by visiting www.childfund.org.nz
ENDS