Christian relief organisations are reaching out to survivors of the recent tragedy in Beslan by providing physical, psychological and medical needs.

World Relief has sent medical supplies to Beslan hospitals which are holding 542 people wounded from the school siege. In addition the organisation is working to design psychosocial programs to help survivors and families of the lost ones.

"The deepest needs are not yet visible," said David Womble, Russia program manager for World Vision. "Over the next few days, energy will be focused on treating the wounded and burying the dead. People are still in a state of shock. But then, trauma will set in, especially with the children and adults who had been held hostage. For the next few months, they could have a serious problem with flashbacks, headaches, nightmares and other symptoms."

World Vision's initial £40,000 relief aid containing diapers, blood pressure gauges and bedside monitors arrived on Monday at the Republican Emergency Hospital and the Republican Children's Hospital in Beslan and Vladikavkaz. More is expected to arrive soon.

Meanwhile, Mission Vera, a partner organisation of Baptist World Aid (BWAid), is assisting in the physical and psychological needs of the children and their families.

"There are a lot of families in Beslan town who have many children, but they are needy ones," says Nadia Zhigulin, director of Mission Vera. "During the days of deep grief our (Mission Vera) employees leave for Beslan for funerals of victims, providing material assistance where needed."

Baptist World Aid will support Mission Vera with £1,300 and more funds will be sent in due course.




Jenny Lee
Ecumenical Press