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Peruvian Photographer Mario Testino Leads Save the Children Global Appeal
Book release party and auction to benefit Save the Children's work in Peru
Westport, Conn. (September 5, 2007) — Top world fashion photographer and Peruvian native Mario Testino is asking for the public's support of Save the Children as the humanitarian agency provides lifesaving relief to families affected by last month's earthquake in Peru
In New York City, Testino hosted a book release party benefiting Save the Children. The new book, "Lima Peru: Edited by Mario Testino," features photographs by over 100 Peruvian artists and celebrates his home country, which still struggling to recover from the devastating earthquake.
Testino has also announced plans to auction a famous, signed photograph of Princess Diana, which first appeared in Vanity Fair magazine a decade ago. The auction, to be held in London this November, will benefit Save the Children UK.
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Photographer Mario Testino |
Testino left Lima just one day before the magnitude-8 earthquake struck the coast of Peru. Speaking out for the first time about the damage caused and the families left homeless in his country, Testino calls for support of Save the Children as the agency assists children and families caught up in the crisis.
"I left Lima the night before the earthquake, and the temperatures were very low," he said. "The thought of these people living with their sorrow and pain in these desperate conditions is extremely sad."
The quake's death toll stands at over 500, with more than 1,350 injured and an estimated 200,000 families left homeless and exposed to the elements.
"The epicenter of the earthquake is 300 kilometers inland from the place where I was raised. I visited Ica often when I lived in Lima," he said. "The people there most affected are humble, and they are some of the kindest people you can possibly imagine. Please help in any way you can. It will be very much appreciated. Many thanks on behalf of my countrymen."
Save the Children aid workers have been in Pisco, one of the worst-affected cities, distributing the first aid flight of 1,000 blankets, 500 sets of essential cooking equipment and 60 large tents designed to give warmth and protection against the elements.
Because many roads are impassable or destroyed, relief workers are having difficulty reaching families — especially those in rural areas — with lifesaving food, water, blankets and shelter materials. Phone networks have been damaged, and many areas lack electricity. As aftershocks continue, families are increasingly at risk.
Save the Children has two teams working in the affected area. The agency plans to reach out to rural families and communities, where aid is often the slowest to reach.
You can help Save the Children respond to emergencies that put at great risk the survival, protection, and well-being of significant numbers of children. By contributing to the Children's Emergency Fund, you enable us to respond immediately to children and families who urgently need our help when disasters strike.
