ISLAMABAD, Jan 26: The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is providing $100 vouchers to 10,000 families in Bagh district to enable them to purchase items of their choice to supplement shelter kits containing corrugated iron and plastic sheeting.

The shelter kits were distributed among the residents before the onset of winter, says an official announcement on Thursday.

“Today in Rangla, USAID distributed some of the $100 voucher packages to about 400 needy families,” stated the announcement.

The voucher system, it said, enabled the earthquake survivors to address their own needs. Families were able to use their vouchers to purchase goods from nearly 140 local merchants participating in the programme.

“Households may purchase needed items such as a large tin box to protect goods from harsh winter or food such as rice and sugar to supplement their diet,” the statement said.

It said the voucher programme was well received by local merchants who had seen their revenue stream increase while helping their neighbours recover and rebuild. It said the programme was contributing to long-term sustainability and self reliance in the earthquake-affected region.