Ghent launches crowdfunding campaign for flood victims
The initiative was put in place after concerned citizens started calling the city, asking how they can help
The city of Ghent has set up a fundraising campaign on July 16, where people can donate to victims of last week’s flash floods in the heart of Europe. The move came after citizens and businesses began contacting the city to ask them questions about what they can do to help alleviate the situation. To top it off, Ghent itself will make a substantial contribution to the campaign.
Flash floods trigger a spontaneous outpouring of solidarity
With images of the floods and the destruction they left touching people across Europe, many residents and businesses in Ghent spontaneously contacted the city with questions on how they can support flood victims.
To channel this Ghent solidarity, the City has decided to set up a crowdfunding campaign with the objective of 100,000 euros. To date, the campaign has raised more than two-thirds of the total amount, or around 68,000 euros.
The City has undertaken to also pay a substantial contribution, depending on the amount collected, and will transfer the total amount to the competent authorities.
Mayor Mathias De Clerq was quoted in a press release, saying: “The images we have seen speak volumes. Ghent and the people of Ghent want to do their part to help those affected. Solidarity is great.
Rudy Coddens, City Councilor for Social Policy and Finance added: “In the event of a disaster, coordinated solidarity is essential. As a city, we are taking the lead in this area. We hope that many more towns and villages will follow. Water knows no municipal or regional borders, and neither does our solidarity.
The Flood of the Century
Last week’s flash flood, which hit Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and parts of Germany, was hailed as the flood of the century in the region, as at least 165 people have been confirmed dead.
Property damage has not been fully assessed as the water has yet to recede in many areas. According to some accounts, 200 liters per square meter fell during storms.
This development drew many emotional reactions from the public, as well as a moderate political call for a faster adoption of a climate change policy, as in Germany, Chancellor Merkel has pledged greater efforts to climate protection.
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