Join #KTforKerala relief effort, make a difference

For a week now the Indian state of Kerala has been swamped by unprecedented rains that triggered floods and landslides that claimed 187 lives so far. Millions have been rendered homeless, many thousands are waiting to be rescued with twater swirling around them. Property, crops and possessions have been washed away, and losses from the disaster are estimated at $2 billion.
The images coming out of India have shocked us. We wept and prayed for those who are suffering from this calamity - men, women, babies, the old, the infirm, the sick, rich, poor, young and old. They stare at an uncertain future and the Kerala government says everything must be "rebuilt completely". That may be the easy part, but the bigger task is to rebuild lives. Where do they start? What can we do to assist them, to put them on their feet, to make them smile at life again?
We, at Khaleej Times, are answering the call by the UAE leadership to provide assistance to the flood-stricken. A UAE emergency panel has also been formed to supervise the humanitarian response. Relief is the priority, then rehabilitation of the displaced, which should be followed by a massive reconstruction effort. Essential supplies like packaged food, bottled water, clothes, blankets and sanitary items are what the victims of this disaster need immediately.
KT has covered the floods, bringing you the facts on the ground like no other newspaper in the Middle East. We share a special bond with our readers. You know it, we have nurtured it by going beyond the call of duty. In that we are an emotional media organisation that refuses to remain on the sidelines when disasters strike. We are acting and stepping out of the confines of media coverage through this charity effort. Donations are already pouring. Every dirham counts and it's easy to contribute through your telecom provider or through banking channels. Join our campaign and make a difference to the millions of broken lives in Kerala. The more you give, the more you shall receive in blessings during this season of Eid.