Tour operators launch fundraisers for Nepal

KATHMANDU, NEPAL - APRIL 25: Emergency rescue workers carry a victim on a stretcher after Dharara tower collapsed on April 25, 2015 in Kathmandu, Nepal. More than 100 people have died as tremors hit Nepal after an earthquake measuring 7.9 on the Richter scale caused buildings to collapse and avalanches to be triggered in the Himalayas. Authorities have warned that the death toll is likely to be much higher. (Photo by Omar Havana/Getty Images)

Tour companies are stepping up their efforts to support the Himalayan nation after its worst disaster in 80 years.

The 7.8 magnitude earthquake rocked Nepal on Saturday, killing more than 2500 people, while a series of aftershocks continue to devastate the nation and cause fresh avalanches on Mount Everest.

In the wake of the disaster, G Adventures has launched a $75,000 aid appeal to provide assistance to Kathmandu, Nepal and surrounding areas. Funds raised will support the long-term recovery of the affected communities.

G Adventures’ founder Bruce Poon Tip says the Himalayan nation is in desperate need of support.

“Nepal needs our help. Relief agencies are already mobilizing to provide food, shelter, and medicine to those affected by the earthquake, but it doesn’t end there. It will take months, even years to rebuild the country.”

Donations can be made via the website, with the tour operators covering all administration costs so 100% of all donations will directly benefit the initiative.

Also getting involved in the aid efforts is the Intrepid Group, representing operators Intrepid Travel, Peregrine, and Geckos.

The group has launched an appeal to assist through its not-for-profit organisation, The Intrepid Foundation, with the appeal raising funds for Plan International, who has already sent emergency teams to respond to the needs of impoverished children and families affected by the earthquake in the Kathmandu Valley.

Plan International is a long-term partner of the Intrepid Foundation, working in Nepal for more than 30 years, with the immediate priority to support children’s core needs – including shelter, water, health care, and essential child protection mechanisms.

Intrepid is encouraging travellers to give to the appeal by matching donations to the appeal dollar-for-dollar. All donations will go directly to Plan International with any administration costs entirely funded by Intrepid.

Intrepid Group’s MD James Thornton said they hope to raise money for local families by matching donations.

“The situation in Nepal is heartbreaking. This is a part of the world that is close to the hearts of many of us, and we know that like us – Australian travellers will want to help.”

Please visit Intrepid’s website to make a donation.

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Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

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