IFAW ready to help

“We have worked in the Pacific for many years and our hearts go out to all the people of Samoa and American Samoa,” said Erica Martin, IFAW Asia Pacific Director.

“We have been in touch with our local contacts including the Animal Protection Society, and will be updated on the situation as it unfolds,” said Ms Martin.

An 8.3 magnitude earthquake in the early hours of the morning in the ocean south-west of American Samoa has resulted in the complete destruction of some villages and the loss of potentially hundreds of lives.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has established a hotline for any Australians worried about friends or relatives in Samoa or American Samoa—1300 555 135.

IFAW has just deployed an Emergency Relief team to the Philippines to assist following the horrific flooding, and now extends an offer of assistance to Samoa if required.

About the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW)
As one of the world’s leading animal welfare organizations, IFAW has representation in 16 countries and carries out its animal welfare work in more than 40. IFAW focuses its campaigns on improving the welfare of wild and domestic animals by reducing the commercial exploitation of animals, protecting wildlife habitats, and assisting animals in distress. IFAW works both on the ground and in the halls of government to safeguard wild and domestic animals and seeks to motivate the public to prevent cruelty to animals and to promote animal welfare and conservation policies that advance the well-being of both animals and people.