We need YOUR help!
Arielle Kouyoumdjian
On September 8th, Morocco's strongest earthquake in over a century ravaged the High Atlas Mountains. The communities in the High Atlas Mountains and surrounding regions sustained over 2800 deaths. 300,000 people were affected. Rescue missions are difficult because heavy machinery can't make it to victims isolated in remote areas. Residents are in need of food, clean water, and shelter.
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This earthquake is particularly worrisome for my family and I. We developed a close connection with the warm-hearted people of Morocco's High Atlas Mountains.
Last spring, we spent several days trekking through the mountain range with Hussain, a local guide. I spoke at length with him and other members of the community about how climate change impacts their livelihoods. The villagers depend on the mountain ecosystem to sustain their economy, agriculture, and water sources. I'm worried about how our friend Hussain, his wife, and two young children are faring. Hussain doesn't have any personal means of outside communication. We attempted to reach him through his employer, but haven't received a response.
Want to know how you can help? Donate to my fundraising campaign, in partnership with the High Atlas Foundation. All proceeds will go towards earthquake relief.
Donate HERE
The High Atlas Foundation is a Moroccan nonprofit that provides community services, women’s empowerment programs, youth learning support, and climate education for farmers. They aim to provide immediate relief to Morrocan families during this time of crisis.
I urge you to contribute to their Community Earthquake Relief fund. Any donation makes a difference.
P.S.
As climate change worsens, natural disasters like this one will increase in frequency and intensity. If you would like to hear citizens of the High Atlas Mountains speak about how climate change impacts them directly, search for the Changing Planet Justice podcast online.
Resources:
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Podcast episode: Profile of A Climate Hero: Hussain, Berber Hiking Guide in Morocco High Atlas Mountains
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