Heatsheet Thermal Blanket Initiative Final Report

A massive earthquake centered near Balakot, Pakistan in October 2005 destroyed millions of homes, caused nearly eighty thousand fatalities, and left the population of the country's northern provinces in a potential humanitarian crisis. The initial needs of survivors were dictated by shelter and health concerns and the ability to survive a harsh Himalayan winter that includes heavy snowfall, severe cold and potential for landslides and aftershocks.

The response of the international community and the Pakistani government was immediate with relief supplies being rushed in from around the globe under the coordination of UN agencies, national governments, and international and national relief and development agencies.

Mercy Corps' ability to respond in Pakistan was greatly enhanced by the strong response of private donors who contributed more than $5 million to the effort. In addition, the disaster fostered interest and donations from thousands of new private donors. The response of individuals augmented approximately $8 million of donated foundation, corporate and institutional funds, allowing Mercy Corps to launch a full scale relief effort in Pakistan.

The Mercy Corps Pakistan relief effort included distribution of critical emergency supplies and materials. A significant element of this effort was the manufacture, acquisition, air shipment of "Heatsheet" thermal blankets, which were distributed to displaced Pakistani earthquake survivors. The Heatsheet Project was a unique partnership between private donors and corporate partners. It was initiated and facilitated by Mr. Richard Berger of Seattle, Washington, a private individual and Mercy Corps donor whose unique contribution and talents made this project a success.