OXFAM: we’re concerned that resources may bypass the poor

[G_j]

http://www.oxfamamerica.org/newsandpublications/press_releases/press_release.2005-08-30.2378414916

Oxfam America Is Evaluating Needs of Partners Affected by Hurricane
30 August, 2005

For more information, contact:
Adrienne Leicester Smith, Media Director
617-728-2406

We at Oxfam America express our sorrow and sympathy for the people affected by Hurricane Katrina. While the hurricane affected hundreds of thousands of people, those living in deep poverty were hit the hardest. They include many families who are members of our grassroots partners in Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana.

Oxfam generally focuses its emergency response on regions where governments and civil society groups have little or no capacity to respond effectively, which is seldom the case in the United States. But despite all the resources available for relief after Katrina, we’re concerned that those resources may bypass many people caught in generational cycles of poverty and discrimination. Those living in poverty may also lack the resources for long-term recovery of their assets and livelihoods.

We are now assessing the situation to determine where our help is needed most. Coastal flooding may have caused severe damage to farmers’ fields and estuarine fisheries, for example, jeopardizing the livelihoods of the fishing and farming communities with which our partners work.

Please return to this site for updated information about our response, including the possibility of a fund-raising appeal, once the scope of the needs becomes apparent.

[G_j]

1. Oxfam generally focuses response on regions where governments

and civil society groups have little or no capacity to respond effectively which is seldom the case in the United States. But despite all the resources available for relief after Katrina, we’re concerned that those resources may bypass many people caught in generational cycles of poverty and discrimination. Those living in poverty may also lack the resources for long-term recovery of their assets and livelihoods.

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[leftchick]

2. The bushies won't let Oxfam help

they need no stinkin help! :(

[G_j]

4. I suppose that is a real possibility

especially if Bush realises they are addressing the cycle of poverty and it's future implications for the victims.

[peace4all]

3. Oxfam, sees the truth

about the poor in NO. thank you

[area51]

5. Dear Oxfam,

Unfortunately, we're no longer a first-world country; we're a third-world country w/vast disparities between rich & poor. This obscene lack of response to this disaster is only befitting a third-world country (a point which I believe another poster said in another thread).

[meganmonkey]

6. P.S. Unfortunately, the current dictator and his cronies may not let

you in

:cry:

[G_j]

7. kick

[G_j]

8. I just think this is worth taking note of..

~kICk~

[JanMichael]

9. They almost ALWAYS bypass the very poor. They ALWAYS benefit the...

..."Middle Class".

[Pacifist Patriot]

10. Hmmm...I'm a regular contributor to Oxfam.

I'm pleased to see this.

[G_j]

14. they are a fine organization. n/t

[G_j]

15. delete

[meganmonkey]

11. Kick

[RBHam]

12. They are concerned Pat Robertson will steal it...

Don't blame them.

[MadAsHellNewYorker]

13. Why is the Red Cross and US Gov't only asking for CASH?

hummmm....:think:

[G_j]

16. kick