The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent (IFRC) Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF) is a source of un-earmarked money created by the Federation in 1985 to ensure that immediate financial support is available for Red Cross Red Crescent response to emergencies. The DREF is a vital part of the International Federation's disaster response system and increases the ability of National Societies to respond to disasters.
Summary: CHF 356,617 was allocated from the IFRC's disaster relief emergency fund (DREF) to support the national society in delivering assistance to 11,832 beneficiary families, as well as to replenish disaster preparedness stocks.
In 2010 Thailand was struck country-wide by the worst floods in its recent history due to unusually heavy monsoon rain. More than 30 provinces were affected, leading to millions of people being displaced as well as losing their possessions and livelihoods.
The Royal Thai government through its Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), has been the lead agency, while non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and private sector partners have also put in considerable effort in supporting and addressing needs in the worst flood-affected areas.
TRCS has been involved in response to the flood situation since it began in August 2010. As an auxiliary to the government, the Thai Red Cross Society (TRCS) has a long-standing relationship with the government's DDPM, and liaises closely at provincial and district level with the disaster management authorities working there. TRCS is working at provincial level with the provincial government and providing assistance to the affected population through provincial governments in the affected areas.
The European Commission's Humanitarian Aid and Civil Protection Department (DG ECHO) has contributed CHF 150,135 to replenish the DREF for the allocation made to this operation. The major donors to the DREF are the Irish, Italian, Netherlands and Norwegian governments, and DG ECHO.