The charity Aquabox, which is run by the Rotary Club of Wirksworth, has shipped 500 boxes of water purification kits and other essential items to refugees from war torn Syria.
The Aquaboxes, which each contain enough water purification kits to clean 18,000 litres of water, left yesterday from the charity’s depot near Matlock, destined for Lebanon, where the refugees are gathered.
Rotarian Mike Tomlinson, a trustee at Aquabox said: "We were glad to see them leave and it’s such a great feeling knowing they will provide much needed clean water and other essential survival items for the refugees."
Since the Syrian crisis began 18 months ago, Aquabox has sent out a total of 1,900 boxes at a cost of £195,000.
Mr Tomlinson said: "We have 70 volunteers who help out on a weekly basis and it gives us all a sense of fulfilment knowing we’re saving lives. The situation in Syria has been on TV for a long time and it has captured people’s imaginations. Often it can take a humanitarian disaster like the Syria crisis to really get people’s attention.”
In addition to the water purification filters, Aquaboxes contain emergency items needed in a disaster situation, including pots, plates, cutlery, toothpaste, soap, baby items, matches, candles, tools, towels and blankets.
Aquabox, which was established 21 years ago, is now appealing for help to send out a further 100 boxes.
Pictures courtesy of the Derby Telegraph
