Red Cross urges long-term support

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies warned on Friday that longer-term support is needed to help shattered communities recover six months after a magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck Nepal. The Red Cross said in a statement that as winter approaches, one of the main humanitarian concerns is how families living at high altitudes will endure the coming months.

"Many have lost their thick-walled homes and are living in temporary shelters that offer little protection against the cold," the Red Cross said, adding that the organization is making plans to give blankets or cash grants to families so they can buy what they need.

IFRC noted that over the coming 18 months, the aid focus will be on supporting the recovery of 700,000 people in four key sectors: water supply and improved sanitation, the restoration of livelihoods, rehabilitation of health structures and community health programs, and help in rebuilding permanent homes.