enfance de Bam
On Friday the 26th of December at 5.28 am in Bam, an earthquake measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale stroke this city in southeastern Iran. The toll reached 40 000 dead and the city is almost completely destroyed. Everyone is upset; TV programs cover the event but two weeks after, Bam is no longer newsworthy. What a short memory we have! «Enfance de Bam » (Children of Bam) is an association not to forget it.
Bam is located 1 000 km (600 miles) south of Tehran. In addition to the human tragedy which has cost the life of thousands of people, the 2 000 year-old citadel of Bam (Arg-e Bam), as well as almost 45 000 houses and irrigation canals have been devastated.
The 131 schools of Bam and its\' suburbs have either been brought to ruins or been seriously damaged and cannot receive children any longer.
This earthquake is the deadliest since June 1990, when a quake in the northwest of the country killed 37 000 people.
Why " Enfance de Bam " has been created ?
A few hours after the quake, the international community rallied in support to Iran and brought emergency assistance. Many countries sent teams of rescuers, support staff and medical equipment, food, tents, etc… This massive support saved many lives and helped the survivors.
But after such a tragedy this international emergency assistance is not enough. It is imperative to bring a long-term solution ; such is the goal of our association.
Our projects :
Confronted to the massive destruction of the area and the destitution of most of the inhabitants, «Children of Bam» volunteers to participate to the reconstruction. The first step will be to create an activity centre for children, emphasizing on artistic and educational projects, and on cultural exchanges between Iran and France. Then the association will help in building a school in the Bam area.
How to help us:
Your help can be both human and financial:
- Human, by bringing your ideas, skills and energy to a humanitarian association.
- Financial, by becoming member of “Children of Bam” or by making a donation . This money will make our projects possible.
Do not hesitate to contact our team of volunteers if you have any questions or suggestions.