Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) is working with affected communities in Sri Lanka, India, Indonesia, and Thailand. Within days of the devastating earthquake and tsunamis, ERD provided initial emergency relief such as food, shelter, medicine, and other critical supplies. As part of planning a comprehensive relief and development program, ERD is partnering with local communities to help them rebuild.
"The totality of this disaster is so enormous. Millions of lives have been ruined," said Mark Spina, ERD Program Director. "This tragedy hit people where they live and where they work. It is particularly difficult for societies that depend on the sea for their livelihood."
ERD staff is on their way to South Asia. "We are sending a team to work with affected dioceses and partners on the ground. The team will assess the best way to respond to both immediate and long-term needs," said Don Hammond, ERD Vice President. The trip includes visits to Thailand, Sri Lanka, and India, as well as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
"The problems and conditions are complex and it will take years to rebuild," said Sandra Swan, ERD President. "We want to work at a community level to help people strategize and take part in their own solution. We'll remain with communities for several years and employ our resources to restore lives in South Asia."
ERD is planning an integrated program to repair infrastructures, such as homes, schools, and clinics, and create sustainable development. ERD will work with local partners to identify the best ways to spur economic growth.
"It is easy to give boats and nets to people who've lost their livelihood," said Spina, "but ERD is involved in strengthening communities from within. That's what makes our work sustainable."
In the first two and a half weeks following the tsunamis, ERD raised $2.1 million for its South Asia Relief Fund and donations continue to come in daily. ERD was able to send life-saving assistance to vulnerable families immediately after the disaster and before the outpouring of Episcopal compassion from both individuals and churches.
"Each gift, small or large, makes a difference," said Swan. "ERD is accountable to all donors and we work effectively and efficiently with partners to ensure every dollar donated is used responsibly."
"Our response has been broad and far reaching," said Hammond. "We are helping survivors of this devastating tragedy through partnerships targeted within Anglican dioceses in affected areas."
The needs are overwhelming and more support is required to restore communities. To help 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.
