Outdoor industry urged to send stock to earthquake zone
27/09/2023
The appeal was launched in early September, when OIA CEO Andrew Denton and friend Thomas Reilly, a mountaineer and former ambassador to Morocco, requested help from the industry.
Thousands died when an earthquake struck on September 8, affecting some of the most remote and poorest areas of the Atlas Mountains.
Richard Branson commended the appeal. He said: “Whole communities are now living in the open air, sleeping on mattresses and clothed in the few garments they have managed to salvage from the ruins of their houses.
“The people we have been working with desperately need shelter and warm clothing. Winter comes early in the High Atlas and the first rains are already forecast, with snow coming hard on their heels.
“I understand that the OIA also called on its members to support relief efforts in Ukraine and Syria and recognise the risk of donor fatigue and that is why we are so grateful to you and the whole UK outdoor industry for your swift action in asking your members to once again contribute whatever they can to a relief effort.”
Items that are needed most include tents, sleeping bags, waterproof jackets, socks, gloves and hats, powerbanks and penknives. “Older models, taking up space in your members’ storage areas, warehouses or outlets would be just as welcome,” added Mr Branson. “Whatever can be spared will save lives over the winter.”
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