Save the Children launches emergency appeal for Vanuatu children affected by Cyclone Pam

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Mar 14, 2015, 11:11 ET

FAIRFIELD, Conn., March 14, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Save the Children has launched an urgent appeal for funds to help the most vulnerable children and their families affected by Cyclone Pam, which tore through Vanuatu on Friday night.

Save the Children's Vanuatu Country Director Tom Skirrow leading the aid agency's response said, "The scene here this morning is complete devastation – houses are destroyed, trees are down, roads are blocked and people are wandering the streets looking for help.

Cyclone Pam - Destruction of homes in Port Villa, Vanuatu following the impact of the typhoon.

"Communications are down across much of the country with the total extent of the devastation unlikely to be known for several days. Aid agencies are facing a massive challenge to reach the most vulnerable children and families as quickly as possible."

There are unconfirmed reports of 44 deaths.

Save the Children is ready to mount an emergency response including providing clean drinking water, distributing vital household and hygiene items and ensuring children are kept safe following the cyclone.

Staff from the aid agency went door to door in the capital Port Vila before the storm urging residents living in basic housing to evacuate to safe buildings.

To donate to Save the Children's Cyclone Pam appeal: