Episcopal Relief and Development is providing emergency supplies and assessing recovery needs in Sri Lanka. Following the devastating earthquake and tsunamis in South Asia, more than 30,000 people were killed Sri Lanka, the hardest hit nation after Indonesia.
ERD's shipment of 1,000 Zero-Fly Temporary Shelters arrived this week in the Diocese of Colombo. The plastic sheeting, water-resistant shelters are made with an insecticide that prevents diseases such as Malaria. The shelters are being distributed to families in Galle, Batticaloa, Mulaitivu and other affected areas.
In a conversation with Mark Spina, ERD program director, Bishop Duleep de Chickera of Colombo thanked Episcopalians in the U.S. for their immediate and generous response through Episcopal Relief and Development.
"Thank you for your assistance. The shelters were delivered promptly and we were able to distribute them in all regions throughout the diocese," said Bishop de Chickera. "Right now, there is an immediate need for small tents for displaced families."
Bishop de Chikera also identified potential recovery and rehabilitation activities such as rebuilding homes, clinics and schools in addition to counseling and psycho-social treatment for traumatized Tsunami survivors.
ERD's assessment team is on their way to the region. The team will visit affected areas in Sri Lanka, India, and Thailand to develop post-recovery rehabilitation plans. Working with Anglican and ecumenical partners, ERD will continue to provide emergency supplies and assess long-term needs in India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and other affected areas.
To support families devastated by the earthquake and tsunamis in South Asia, donate to the South Asia Relief Fund at www.er-d.org or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development, South Asia Relief Fund, PO Box 12043, Newark, NJ 07101.
