DUBBO City councillor John Walkom has launched an appeal to assist the people of Vanuatu who were affected by Cyclone Pam, hoping to raise $20,000.
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The severe tropical cyclone struck the Pacific Islands in early March, leaving a trail of destruction behind.
Cr Walkom said the disaster had tugged the heart strings of many people in the Dubbo community.
"We have seen people lose everything from their homes, personal belongings and in some cases, the tragic death of a family member," he said.
Cr Walkom said the battle for those people had just begun.
"Those affected will need to now rebuild their homes, their families and their communities" he said.
Dubbo shares some of the responsibility in assisting those affected to rebuild their lives, he said.
"They were going about their lives and to then be struck by such a devastating natural event has shook their very existence to the core," Cr Walkom said.
After discussing the issue with the Rotary Club of South Dubbo, Cr Walkom said the club members would be the custodians of the money raised, with 100 per cent of the funds to be delivered to a fellow Rotary branch in Vanuatu.
"It can be used to purchase urgent supplies for communities and distributed within the worst effected areas, Cr Walkom said.
Donations can be made at any Orana Credit Union branch marked Vanuatu Appeal.
BSB: 932 000
Account Number - 740202
