WINONA LAKE – Integrated Community Development International is seeking donations to recoup about $300,000 in losses from the sacking of its offices in the Central African Republic. A rebel alliance called Seleka took the capital, Bengui, March 24 and established its own government. Four ICDI offices in the capital and other towns were looted during the violence, which began in December. Two family members of ICDI staff in the country also died during the violence, CEO Jim Hocking said this morning. ICDI has been working in the country for several years, focusing on solutions to poverty at the village level. Well drilling is one of its major ongoing projects, using hand pumps developed by engineers in Indiana and Ohio. The non-profit plans to continue drilling operations despite the theft of hundreds of thousands of dollars in vehicles, equipment and cash, Hocking said. “It’s a hit, there’s no denying that,” he said. “It’s been hard to re-establish our base, but we will continue to work there, continue to support the staff and continue to drill wells.” He noted that $20,000 has been donated so far, and that the support they’ve received from local partners has been very encouraging. “The question is how long will it take to deal with re-funding and get rolling again,” he added. “Will enough come in to re-establish things as they were? Probably not, but we will try to do what we can.” Hocking plans to fly to the Central African Republic later this month to help his staff re-establish their footing. His son, Jay, who is ICDI director of communication, will follow up with a visit next month to appraise operational structure. Jim Hocking said they have had contact with the new government, which has said it does not condone looting and extortion, but it’s difficult dealing with a group comprised of three different factions. “You may negotiate with one group, but it may not be the same case with the next guys who show up at your door,” he remarked. They will continue to try establishing relationships with the new government, as well as appealing to other non-profits and the international community to increase pressure for the government to put a stop to the looting, he said. Regardless of who runs the country, he noted that ICDI’s focus remains at the village level. Well drillings are still scheduled for this year, and ICDI will re-establish services as funding comes in. Needs include $80,000 in staff salary, $90,000 to replace six vehicles, $5,600 for laptops and radio equipment, and $6,000 for travel expenses to hand-carry needed items into the country. ICDI set up a Jumpstart Emergency Fund, which is online at www.icdi.org/jump
