2 October 2009

World Vision’s relief team is assisting thousands of people in Padang, West Sumatra, impacted by the 7.6 magnitude earthquake that shattered the area on 30 September 2009.

Over 1,000 people are reported dead and the death toll is expected to rise, with many people still trapped under the rubble of thousands of collapsed houses and other buildings. Thousands of survivors have sought shelter at temporary evacuation centres.

World Vision is working in cooperation with government and community members to try to quell the immense suffering caused by the quake. World Vision has prepared 2,000 family kits containing tarpaulins, mats, blankets, buckets, toothbrushes and toothpaste, soap, tissues and sanitary items. A further 750 packages for children under five, as well as water containers for 2,000 families, are being distributed.

World Vision’s National Director Trihadi Saptoadi said, “the situation is very critical at the moment. People and children need water, food and temporary shelter. People who are injured need medical assistance. We are trying to raise more funds. Let us join hands together to help people in need.”

World Vision continues to respond to the earthquake that hit West Java last month and are appealing for extra resources. “Although we are responding to disaster in other areas, as a relief and humanitarian organisation we are committed to sending the best staff to respond to the disaster in West Sumatra,” Trihadi said.