On 24th August 2016, Italy was affected by a series of major earthquakes, followed by aftershocks.
The original 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck a cluster of mountain communities about 140 km east of Rome bringing down whole villages and causing multiple deaths and injuries. This was followed by other earthquakes, including one that registered 6.6 on the Richter Scale. Many people lost family members and some young children lost both parents. A further series of earthquakes at the end of October shook several towns near Rome and caused widespread damage, leading to the evacuation of more than 25,000 people from their homes.
In the immediate aftermath of the earthquakes, the Civil Defence Unitalsi (“CDU”) of the Italian government mobilised relief efforts, and requested the Sathya Sai International Organisation (SSIO) of Italy to assist with housing, heating and basic household necessities for these families.
The SSIO placed an immediate order for a pre-fabricated housing unit for a family of 10 rendered homeless. This first housing unit, fully furnished, with heating facilities, was delivered on 30th September 2016 and consists of two bedrooms and two bathrooms. A second housing unit was delivered on 22nd October 2016.
With continuing aftershocks at the end of October 2016, access to the affected areas are restricted and the SSIO of Italy is evaluating the situation, including opportunities to help families and young children.
SSIO members and officers who wish to participate in this relief effort may click on this link for further directions.
Those who wish to volunteer for service in the affected areas of Italy are requested to visit the Logistics/Volunteer tab on this website for further information related to registration and logistics.
In addition to the disaster relief efforts by the SSIO, let us all pray to Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba to shower His divine blessings on those afflicted by this natural disaster and relieve their suffering.
Please click here for SSIO’s past relief works in Italy.
