CARE’s response to the crisis in South Ossetia

The Statement of CARE

Since the conflict in South Ossetia escalated on August 7, CARE International has been assessing needs and providing relief to those affected by the conflict between the Republic of Georgia and Russia.

More than 10,000 people, most from South Ossetia, are already registered in the different IDP (internally displaced persons) locations in Tbilisi and nearby cities. This figure is expected to increase by another 5,000 during the coming days. The number of IDPs could reach as much as 40,000.

CARE’s response

In coordination with the United Nations and other humanitarian organisations, CARE has set up an emergency response to assist the people affected by the conflict and meet their most urgent needs.

As a result of this action, CARE has been able to distribute food and non food items to 170 people in Tbilisi and 500 people in Rustavi, about 25 km south of the capital. Basic and essential necessities were provided, including drinking water, food, baby food and supplies, and non-food hygiene items.

CARE is also planning to start providing for shelter and water and sanitation needs, while continuing to assess the scope of the crisis, with a view to identifying the specific and long-term needs of the displaced.

CARE calls on all parties to cease violent conflict and to allow humanitarian organisations to assist people who need medical attention, shelter, food, water and other basic needs.

CARE has worked in Georgia since 1992, initially providing humanitarian assistance to IDPs, and later working in the sectors of community development, small business development, and good governance. Currently CARE Georgia has over 70 national and expatriate staff in the country working in the southern and eastern parts of Georgia.

For further information, please contact CARE office in Tbilisi:
74a, I. Chavchavadze ave. Tbilisi, 0162, Georgia.
Tel: (995 32) 291941
Fax: (995 32) 294307
or Tatia Khubulava, tatia_khubulava@care.org.ge, +995-99-13-13-42