June 6, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Suzanne Baroody

Phone: 800-225-8550

FAX: 912-265-6170

Kosovo Still in Need of Assistance

MAP (Medical Assistance Programs) International is encouraged by the recent peace agreements which allow for the end to the NATO bombings and the withdrawal of Serbian troops from the Province of Kosovo. However, despite the recent arrival of Peacekeeping forces, we anticipate a considerable period of time will pass before life can resume at normal levels of civilian activity and social interaction. With nearly 750,000 refugees still living outside of the borders of Kosovo it will be many months before material assistance to those populations can cease.

Working through International Medical Corp (IMC), a UN/UNHCR sanctioned agency, MAP has to date provided over $5 million in desperately needed, life-saving medicines and medical supplies for refugees in Albania, Macedonia, and Montenegro. Due to the anticipated lengthy period of adjustment, MAP International will continue to minister aid to agencies actively supporting refugee populations in the countries of Albania and Macedonia. MAP also foresees the need to provide additional support for those refugees that decide to return to their homeland of Kosovo, which has been devastated by the conflicting forces.

After substantiating that all medicines and medical supplies will be delivered to the ill, needy and infants without obstruction or confiscation by any outside parties, material assistance that is requested for the Province of Kosovo will be safely transported, received and distributed by a recognized MAP partner (non-governmental or approved UN agency). As opportunity arises for a safe and secure humanitarian aid program to civilians beyond the Province of Kosovo, MAP will work closely with our donors to position only designated gifts into that area of need.

MAP International is a 45 year old Christian, non sectarian relief and development agency with regional offices in Latin America and Africa, and health care programs in over 130 developing countries. MAP promotes the total health of people living in the world’s poorest communities by partnering in the: provision of essential medicines, the prevention and eradication of disease, and the promotion of community health development. Every $1 donated provides $21 in medicines, medical supplies and programs. Administrative and fundraising expenses total only 1.4% of total revenue.

To make a donation, or for more information, please contact Suzanne Baroody at MAP International at 1-800-225-8550, or write: MAP International, P.O. Box 215000, Brunswick, GA 31521-5000.

MAP INTERNATIONAL
c/o Kosovo Refugee Relief
2200 Glynco Parkway
Brunswick, GA 31525
Phone: 1-800-225-8550
E-mail: mapus@map.org
Internet: www.map.org