Life is getting back to normal for some 3,000 survivors living in settlement centers around the worst-hit town Amatrice as rescue efforts are drawing to an end after a 6.0-magnitude earthquake hit central Italy.
About one kilometer from the town center, some 140 people live at a shelter equipped with a variety of facilities, including canteens, lavatories and psychological counseling service specially prepared for children.
“The children were traumatized mentally. So we have colorful decorations in the tents, and the children can have some free activities. In this way, they are able to reconnect with their normal everyday life,” said Mariasilvia Cicconi, a volunteer with the ANPAS Volunteer Association at the settlement.
Cicconi added that the government needs to provide further support to help the minors fully recover from the shadow of the disaster.
“A mother of four came to us this morning. Her children spent the day here yesterday. She said her kids were finally able to sleep last night. The government has to provide systematic strong support for these young victims, not just us volunteers,”she said.
Rescuers said they've shifted the focus of their work to helping survivors re-build their lives and prepare against secondary disasters.
“This area sits at the junction between the hills and the mountains. Some local people live on agriculture and planting, and others work in the tourism industry and have business contact with Rome in their work. We need to have a clear idea about their urgent needs and how to bring the town back to its normal life,” said Paolo Baccari, an officer of the National Civil Protection Department.
The death toll in the earthquake that hit the country on Aug. 24 stood at 291, according to the Italian Civil Protection agency.
The death toll in Amatrice was 230, while the number of victims in Accumoli and Arquato del Tronto were 11 and 50 respectively.