Media Release
Thursday, 16 October 2014
ChildFund launches appeal to help Ebola orphans
ChildFund New Zealand is asking New Zealanders to contribute to an emergency appeal to support children orphaned and
stigmatised by Ebola.
As the death toll from Ebola rises, more than 3,000 orphaned and vulnerable children are the hidden victims of the
crisis in West Africa.
ChildFund Liberia, in collaboration with Liberia’s Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, has opened the first dedicated
children’s Interim Care Centre in the Liberian capital, Monrovia, for children who have lost one or both parents to
Ebola.
ChildFund New Zealand Chief Executive Paul Brown says the number of children orphaned and stigmatised by Ebola is
increasing by the day, and the centre will provide a protective environment for these children and reduce the trauma
associated with stigma around the disease.
“Here children, many of whom have seen their parents die tragically, will receive food, shelter, and health monitoring
throughout their 21 day quarantine, while a permanent home is arranged.”
Additional centres in other areas will be established to support the increasing number of children affected.
Donations to ChildFund’s Ebola Crisis Appeal can be made by calling 0800 223 111 or online www.childfund.org.nz.
About ChildFund New Zealand
ChildFund New Zealand is a member of the ChildFund Alliance, an international child development organisation with 75
years of experience helping the world's neediest children, which works in more than 50 countries, assisting 16 million
children and family members regardless of race, creed or gender.
ChildFund New Zealand works for the well-being of children by supporting locally led initiatives that strengthen
families and communities, helping them overcome poverty and protect the rights of their children.
ChildFund's comprehensive programmes incorporate health, education, nutrition and livelihood interventions that
sustainably protect, nurture and develop children. ChildFund works in any environment where poverty, conflict and
disaster threaten the well-being of children.
ENDS