CONCACAF announces humanitarian, logistical support for Member Nations affected by recent natural disasters
MIAMI -- CONCACAF announced Monday firm logistical and humanitarian commitments to assist in the relief, recovery and reconstruction efforts in the wake of the recent natural disasters that have affected Member Associations in the Caribbean and North America
The response consists of support for on-going relief efforts, as well as assistance with other resources needed to rebuild the football infrastructure in the nations that have experienced recent natural disasters, including Hurricanes Irma and Maria, and the earthquakes in Mexico. Sixteen of CONCACAF’s 41 Member Associations have been impacted.
“Our hearts and thoughts remain with our CONCACAF family and friends, who have been deeply impacted by the recent natural disasters within the region,” said CONCACAF President Victor Montagliani. “As the Confederation assesses the needs of our Member Associations that were severely devastated, we are working diligently to provide emergency assistance. Together, we will help rebuild these communities.”
To provide longer-term rebuilding assistance, CONCACAF has established a Disaster Evaluation Taskforce, which will assess the individual situation of each Member Association to determine the magnitude of the damage inflicted by these disasters. This Task Force will help identify potential support measures and recommend the best course of action from CONCACAF, while coordinating efforts with FIFA and the football community to better assist the affected Member Associations.
“Our immediate priority is the well-being of the communities in which the Confederation has presence,” added Montagliani. “Core infrastructure in countries across the region has been impacted. We recognized that our actions can go only so far in providing aid, but we come together to do all we can to support our Associations in the short-term, and assist rebuilding the game once the situation begins to normalize. To be effective, our approach will be humble and targeted; if CONCACAF can contribute to reestablish football then we also help to reignite hope for those devastated by these disasters.”
As supervising body for football in North and Central America and the Caribbean, CONCACAF’s mission includes a focus on administration and development of the game throughout the region. Disaster relief efforts are structured to align with the Confederation’s commitment to serve its Member Associations through the ONE CONCACAF Vision.
