Christian World Service
October 2, 2009

Christian World Service appeals for help after the Pacific Tsunami and Indonesian Earthquake

CWS is appealing for funds to assist with long term support and reconstruction plans in American Samoa, Samoa and Tonga after the devastation of Wednesday’s 8.3 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami.

At the same time CWS is asking for donations to help local partners in Sumatra, Indonesia respond to the massive devastation caused by two sizable earthquakes of magnitude 7.6 and 6.2.

CWS expresses its deepest sympathy to all those who have lost loved ones and are dealing with loss after these horrific disasters.

CWS has spoken with local churches and partners that are endeavouring to meet the immediate needs for food, water, medical assistance and shelter as well as providing essential community support.

In asking for assistance Tongan Human Rights and Democracy Movement director Siosiua Po'oi Pohiva, spoke of the horrendous time facing Tonga and the individual contributions to the national efforts to help those affected. The Community Development Trust is also assessing long term reconstruction needs in Vava’u and Ha’apai islands both of which suffered considerable damage.

In Samoa and American Samoa the Councils of Churches with the support of the Pacific Conference of Churches are preparing to meet the longer term needs for rebuilding and reconstruction which will be necessary in coming months.

CWS is also appealing for assistance to Indonesian partners from ACT (Action by Churches Together) International responding to two massive quakes that hit Sumatra, Indonesia on September 30. The mounting death toll has reached 1100 and is expected to climb. Hundreds of buildings and infrastructure have been destroyed.

CWS is appealing for funds to provide food, water, shelter and medical assistance for the thousands of people affected.

“The devastation by so many disasters in our region this week requires an extraordinary response from New Zealanders. CWS’s partners are there for the long haul and will provide assistance until local people are back on their feet. We ask for your generous support to the thousands of people who need it,” says Christian World Service Director Pauline McKay.

CWS has already launched an appeal for the Philippines where local partners are also mounting a huge relief effort.

Donations to all appeals can be made at www.cws.org.nz , PO Box 22 652, Christchurch 8061 or Tel 0800 74 73 72.

ENDS

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