Java, Indonesia: Earthquakes take toll
Story by Chris Herlinger/CWS
Photo: Harun Tambing/CWS-Indonesia |
An earthquake hit the south central part of the Indonesian island of Java on May 27, killing some 6,000 people. Immediately after the quake, Church World Service staffers were among the first to begin distributing assistance, providing water and blankets for Bethesda Hospital, where many quake survivors were treated.
CWS is continuing to respond to the needs of more than 16,000 households affected by the disaster. In areas where nearly all of the houses were damaged, CWS has distributed bottled water, food, Health and Baby Kits, family tents, and CWS Blankets. In addition to the emergency assistance, CWS is developing other programs, including possible home repair assistance, education and early child development programs, and psychosocial first aid. CWS is also involved in a community based rehabilitation program in collaboration with two local partners that includes disaster preparedness work, advocacy, and a livelihood recovery program supported by small grants.
Incredibly, on July 17 a second earthquake, this time with accompanying tsunami, hit Java, killing some 550 people and leaving survivors sheltered in public halls, mosques, and open areas.
CWS Indonesia responded to the latest quake by immediately providing mineral water and biscuits in Kebumen and Cilacap districts, Central Java. CWS is also assisting via a field kitchen by providing rice, cooking oil, eggs, soy sauce, sugar, mineral water, instant noodles, vegetables, and kerosene to support 50 households in Adipala village, Cilacap district.
Meanwhile, a CWS emergency response team is also bringing food items (baby biscuits, cooking oil, canned fish, instant noodles, salt, and sugar) for approximately 200 households. The emergency team includes a water and sanitation specialist who will assess water and sanitation needs.
Church World Service also continues to assist with long-term recovery from the December 2004 tsunami.
You can help us assist the earthquake survivors in Java. Make a gift online or by calling 800-297-1516.