Latest update: 3.13pm 4/10/2009

The first of seven trucks carrying emergency kits arrived in Padang, West Sumatra this weekend. World Vision has immediately commenced distribution of relief goods to earthquake survivors.

The distribution of family kits, consisting of tarpaulins, sleeping mates, blankets, sarongs and personal hygiene items reached 175 families affected by the earthquake in Bungus Teluk Kabung subdistrict, about 20km away from Kota Padang. World Vision is planning to distribute another 100 kits in this village, once the trucks carrying the second batch of goods arrive.

Seven trucks, carrying 1,900 emergency kits left Jakarta two days ago on their way to Padang. 2,000 collapsible water containers have also arrived and are ready to be distributed to the affected communities.

Another distribution is planned for Padang Pariaman district, one of the areas worst-affected by the earthquake. Many buildings were destroyed by the earthquake, as the area is nearest to the epicentre.

World Vision emergency response team leader, Yacobus Runtuwene, says that distributions began immediately after the truck arrived in Padang.

"Tonight, we provided 175 families with emergency kits. We are planning a 90-day response to assist 10,000 families in 3 districts," said Yacobus, who is part of the second team of World Vision responders to arrive in Padang yesterday.

Three days after the earthquake, many people still remain trapped under the rubble. As the rescue teams continue their efforts, World Vision is preparing to care for survivors by surveying the impact of the disaster, and rushing emergency supplies to the worst-affected areas.

World Vision is planning to assist communities with survival kits for families and children, shelter kits, water containers, equipment for cleaning up the rubble, Child-Friendly Spaces, and education on preventing the spread of communicable diseases through hygiene measures.

You can read more about World Vision’s relief efforts in Indonesia here.