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TOOLS & BLANKETS and Tsunami Relief
The earthquake and resulting tsunami of December 26, 2004 was one of the most devastating natural disasters of the last 50 years, claiming over 150,000 lives. Millions have been displaced, homes and livelihoods shattered, in an area stretching from Indonesia to East Africa. Their suffering has stirred the compassion of millions of people around the world. From Girl Scouts troops to the United Nations, in ways great and small, individuals, groups, and nations are reaching out to help. Church World Service is grateful to be one vehicle of that heartfelt response.
Church World Service, with longstanding programs in the region, was able to respond quickly - blankets, tents, water, medical supplies, and Health Kits have already been directed to the most affected areas. And, thanks to funds from the CWS TOOLS & BLANKETS Program, CWS will continue to meet emergency needs as well as the long term demands of rebuilding shattered lives and communities.
Church World Service approaches disasters in a wholistic manner. That’s what we mean by a “Rainbow of Caring.” We are there responding immediately after a disaster happens, but our commitment is to stand with people in the long process of recovery and rehabilitation as well. When the images of horror from the tsunami or other disaster fades from our television screen, CWS will still be at work providing care to traumatized children; rebuilding homes and schools; strengthening food security by providing seeds and tools, fishing equipment, and training. With your support, the CWS TOOLS & BLANKETS Program is a rainbow of caring to people in need around the world. And, thanks to your support, we are at work in over 80 countries responding to the silent tsunamis of hunger, poverty, and disease that may not make the evening news, but shatter lives as surely as a tidal wave. Thank you.