Jan 29, 2004

Local Iranian-Americans seek funds to help rebuild Bam, Iran after devastating quake

Just before dawn on Dec. 26, 2003, an earthquake measuring 6.7 on the Richter scale and centered near the ancient city of Bam, hit Iran leaving over 40,000 dead and many more homeless. Recently a group of 15 different local nonprofit groups banded together to hold a fundraiser to raise money to help rebuild the devastated city.

Though the full extent of casualties is not yet known, the government estimates more than 40,000 dead and tens of thousands injured. Approximately 70 percent of buildings in the historic city of Bam have collapsed, leaving many trapped and others homeless. Some 570 villages have also been affected.

The full extent of damage is not yet clear. With two hospitals destroyed by the quake, all medical facilities are at capacity. Electricity, gas, water and telephone services have ceased. Providing relief to the families most impacted by the earthquake and returning them to safety and security amidst the winter conditions is Relief International's priority. Relief International, a Los Angeles-based, international relief and development agency, is responding to the needs of the victims today's devastating earthquake in Iran.

A group of local Iranian-Americans recently banded together to hold a fundraiser which took place on Jan. 24 at FAZ Sunnyvale and raised $96,000, which was matched by Relief International for a total of $192,000. The goal of the Bay Area group is to raise $200,000. On Jan. 28, Vice Mayor Pat Dando presented the group a check for $500 from the city and donations are still pouring in. All donations to RI through Feb. 6 will be matched by RI.

“On behalf of BAIVOTER and other local Iranian-American organizations involved in the fundraiser, I would like to thank Vice Mayor Dando for acknowledging this human tragedy and for taking the initiative to contribute towards rebuilding efforts,” said Niloufar Nouri, executive director of Bay Area Iranian-American Voter Association. “She has set a great example for other office holders and law makers and has stood up to her reputation as a leader of our community to help bring people closer through dialogue and civic involvement.”

It is important to note that this was the first fundraiser held by a large number of local Iranian-American non-profit organizations. The fundraiser was organized in less than two weeks time, and was held at FAZ Restaurant in Sunnyvale where the owner took care of all expenses, so that there was no overhead for the donations. “Basically, 100 percent of donations will go directly to rebuilding efforts,” said Nouri.

Matt Kamkar said that he was concerned that people wouldn’t donate to the relief efforts due to the anti-Middle Eastern sentiment following 9-11. “But if you look at the pictures of the children who have died,” he said, “and the devastation to that region it is impossible not to feel compelled to help. I am very happy that Pat Dando and the City of San Jose are helping us today.”

To contribute to the rebuilding of Bam, Iran, visit the Relief International website at www.ri.org where a fund has been set up to help rebuild Bam. All checks should be written to Relief International and specify Bam Fund.