According to their press release, CARE has distributed food, hygiene products, tents, and tarps to 200 families in Chile, although more aid is needed. Tarps are considered the first protection measure, more so than tents, as we explained in an earlier post about tarps needed in Haiti. Tarps, when used with the right materials, provide temporary protection to rain and UV rays, while tents generally aren’t as waterproof. In fact, as we’ve seen many times before in regards to camping, tarps are often needed to protect the tent from rain.

As in Haiti, the rain season started this month in Chile, which means that tarps are in even more need than before. If you’re considering assisting with aid, consider donating any tarps you own. These don’t need to be brand new, as we saw in the case of Haitian relief efforts. Rather, the tarps need to be in working condition, which means no tears, holes, or frayed edges. Other items are needed in Chile, as well, but shelter is also important. If you’re looking for a way to help, contact various organizations, like CARE, in your area to see if they’ll take tarps as donations.