[URPE] Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI): Relief efforts in Pakistan

[urpe-moderator at lists.econ.utah.edu]

This organization is run by a very good friend and does great work.

Radhika Balakrishnan
rbalakra at igc.org

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Dear Friends

We, at SDPI, have received many inquiries and offers of money from friends
across the globe. Everyone wants to donate money but wants to ensure that
the donations reach organizations that are reliable and will actually help
those affected.

SDPI has opened a special bank account at ABN-Amro Bank, Islamabad, for
relief and rehabilitation work for the earthquake affected people and
areas. The bank account number for the Pak Rupee account is:
31.94.06.016.   For US dollar account the number is: 31.94.06.415  ABN
AMRO Bank New York (SWIFT Address ABNAUS33) for account of ABN AMRO Bank
Karachi (SWIFT Address ABNAPKKA). Pls check this info on the SDPI website
(www.sdpi.org) October 12 onwards.


We are working together with reputable organizations that have come
together under the banner of the Joint Action Committee, Pakistan for
relief efforts. Individuals as well as organizations are members.
Different committees have been formed so help may reach the affected areas
in a systematic manner and efforts may not be duplicated.
Some of the leading organizations include SUNGI, The Network for Consumer
Rights, Pattan Development Organization, Rozan, Action Aid, and Aurat
Foundation. We are pooling resources and based on field assessments
organizing the supply of material aid for the present and reconstruction
efforts later.

Pls note that the donations will go directly to the people affected and
will not go into salaries or administrative overheads. Every penny will be
accounted for.

We are also going to establish a website that would provide the latest
update on what is happening where, the intervention required and what is
being done by the partners. Financial info will also be posted on the web
for purposes of transparency. We will send you the address asap. Pls feel
free to send the website address to other institutions and organizations
interested in coordinating efforts with local NGOs.

SDPI is also developing a systematic method of documentation and needs
assessment so that livelihood strategies may be devised for the next 2-3
years. If you have suggestions to share, please feel free to do so. We
would really appreciate it.

Thanks

Saba Gul Khattak
Executive Director
SDPI
Tel: 2278134/36
Fax: 2278136