CARE Australia launches Southern Asia Earthquake Appeal

CARE Australia - Media Release

CARE Australia has launched an emergency appeal to provide lifesaving assistance to the survivors of yesterday’s devastating southern Asia earthquake.

It is currently estimated that at least 12,000 people have been killed and thousands more are affected after an earthquake measuring over 8 on the Richter scale caused giant tidal waves and flash floods across southern Asia.

CARE’s staff in Sri Lanka, India, Thailand, Indonesia and Bangladesh are coordinating with the National Disaster Authorities to assess the specific requirements and initiate relief operations.

Yesterday CARE was assisting with the evacuation of people from affected areas to higher ground. Over the coming days CARE will be distributing water, shelter, food and clothing.

CARE is appealing for donations to provide both immediate and long-term assistance.

‘CARE is initiating an assessment of the emergency needs of thousands of victims across the region,’ said Tony Eggleton, CARE Australia’s Chairman. ‘In Sri Lanka CARE has already established a support base in Polonaruwa to transport supplies to the badly affected area of Batticaloa where CARE has staff on the ground.’

‘CARE appeals to the generosity of Australians who have supported us so well in the past in times of humanitarian crisis,’ Eggleton said.

Donations can be made through the CARE Australia website www.careaustralia.org.au or by phoning 1800 020 046.