Following the catastrophic fire that ravaged the Omiš area, the City of Split organized a reception center at the Gripe Sports Center hall for over 300 evacuees. Deputy Mayor of Split, Matea Dorčić, revealed on HRT's Studio 4 program how the aid operation was organized and who was involved.
County Prefect and Emergency Services Chief Reached Out
Dorčić recounted that it all began with a call from the county's civil protection chief, Damir Gabrić, and County Prefect Blaženko Boban. "The reception center was designated at the Gripe hall; we were contacted by the county's civil protection chief, Damir Gabrić, and County Prefect Blaženko Boban. We immediately made our utility company, Promet Split, available to transport the affected people to the reception center at Gripe," said the Deputy Mayor.
Over 90 Percent of Those Admitted Were Foreign Nationals
According to records, 321 people were at the Gripe hall. More than 90 percent of those admitted were foreign nationals, mostly Czechs and Poles. Tomislav Gojo, head of the Split Red Cross, took all necessary measures to receive and register people, which was crucial for families to find their loved ones.
All Services and Volunteers Mobilized
"According to records, 321 people were at the Gripe hall, and all services were engaged: foreign and Croatian police, the Red Cross, which always leads in such situations, and a number of volunteers who came to help with receiving humanitarian aid. The company Promet Split, the public institution Športski objekti, Split Parking... Also, the Student Center helped us; through them, together with the Red Cross, we organized meals," Dorčić stated.
Red Cross Coordination Was Impeccable
Given the high temperatures, it was necessary to ensure an adequate supply of water and food. "The Red Cross coordination was impeccable - blankets, coverings, mattresses, towels, and other essentials... because people literally rushed out of their apartments in beachwear or straight from bed. I believe they received everything they needed at that moment," concluded the Deputy Mayor of Split.