Embassy Press Release

American Assistance for Romanian Flood Victims Continues

A special housewarming took place today in Comanesti, Bacau County, as 37 families received keys to their newly built homes. The keys were presented, on behalf of Ambassador Nicholas F. Taubman, by U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Director Rodger Garner and Comanesti Mayor Viorel Miron.

Comanesti was hit hard by the flooding Trotus River in 2004 and 2005. Last year, a visiting aid worker told the international news media, "It was as if a tidal wave had ripped through the city." Hundreds of families were left homeless after the disaster.

The U.S. Government was among the first donors to respond to the crisis, donating emergency supplies such as food, personal hygiene items, portable heaters, and water purification systems. The Embassy contributed generators, and the U.S. armed forces sent beds, mattresses, rubber boots, and other supplies to Comanesti and other communities. USAID coordinated the relief efforts and created the Romanian Flood Recovery Program, which offers grants and loans to families and communities in order to rebuild homes, schools, bridges, and health clinics. The Romanian Flood Recovery Program is implemented by CHF International Romania.

In Comanesti, USAID helped rebuild 245 partially damaged homes. The Comanesti City Hall improved local roads, identified 37 families whose homes had been completely destroyed by the floods, and offered land for the construction of new homes. In February, 2006, USAID and CHF International Romania began to work with a local construction company, who also donated materials and labor valued at $16,000. The Government of Romania contributed materials worth approximately $6,000 per house, for a total contribution of approximately $220,000.

Mr. Garner praised the Government of Romania, the Comanesti City Hall, and CHF International Romania stating that "the recovery from these devastating floods shows how much can be accomplished when everyone works together. This is a good example of cooperation at the local, national and international level." Mr. Garner told the residents of Comanesti. "The American people are pleased to be able to help you overcome these difficult times and create a safer, more prosperous future together."

He added, "May the warmth of this holiday season fill your new homes with happiness for years to come."

For more information, please contact:
Mihaela Popescu
USAID/Romania
021 316 1222

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