Jan 19, Colombo: UNICEF handed over non-food relief items to the value of 7 million rupees to the Sri Lanka Government Agent in Nuwara Eliya.

The relief items were gifted at the request of the Ministry of Disaster Management and Human Rights which is coordinating the relief efforts.

The items will be used by children and their families who were affected by the devastating torrential rains which triggered landslides in the district last week. The items consist of bed sheets, towels, lanterns, kitchen utensils, and water storage containers, as well as essential health items requested by the Ministry of Healthcare and Nutrition.

Last week UNICEF sent relief items to 2,000 families affected by floods in the Hambantota district as a part of its immediate response.

“After a disaster it’s vital to get in early to assist people with the basics, and to prevent the spread of disease,” said UNICEF representative in Sri Lanka, JoAnna van Gerpen. “After a detailed assessment, we will continue to support these people, especially in the areas of health, education, and water and sanitation,” she added.