The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent (IFRC) Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF) is a source of un-earmarked money created by the Federation in 1985 to ensure that immediate financial support is available for Red Cross Red Crescent response to emergencies. The DREF is a vital part of the International Federation's disaster response system and increases the ability of National Societies to respond to disasters.
Summary:
242,122 Swiss francs were allocated from the IFRC’s Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF) on 17 September 2010 to support the Nicaraguan Red Cross(NRC) in delivering assistance to some 1,000 families (5,000 beneficiaries).
2010 had an unusually strong rainy season, with devastating effects throughout the country. Starting with Tropical Storm Agatha in early June, the country suffered several months of severe floods and landslides, particularly around Lake Managua. By November, official numbers of affectation had reached 71,000 people, with 10,343 people staying in collective centres and 66 deaths, including the five members of the Nicaraguan Red Cross who lost their lives during a field mission.
As a result, the National Society distributed food parcels, kitchen kits, hygiene kits, tarpaulins, jerry cans and blankets reaching 1,040 families (4,714 people). In addition, the NRC reached 429 families (2,954 people) in collective centres with health related activities, including informative talks and psychosocial support.
The operation is now closed, with a final balance of 9,726 Swiss francs unspent and returned to DREF.
