Week of Compassion |
| Many of you have asked if Week of Compassion is helping
tsunami victims and how you may assist. The day following the catastrophe, the Week
of Compassion Committee approved an initial pledge of $250,000 on behalf of the Christian
Church (Disciples of Christ) to earthquake and tsunami relief in southern Asia. The
same day, WOC wired funds to cover the cost of the first three shipments WOC will fund as
part of the major humanitarian response to Church World Service is mounting in the
aftermath of historic proportions. Each shipment costs $50,000 but because of partner relationships with manufacturers and the government is valued at more than $500,000 and includes food, family shelter kits, health/hygiene kits, and medicines. Week of Compassion is particularly focused on providing care for the children who have been orphaned by this tragedy. It is estimated that in excess of 50,000 children were killed and tens of thousands have been left orphaned, traumitized, and vulnerable to a host of problems. Week of Compassion is working with local partners to provide 2,000 children who have been displaced by the disaster in the hard-hit Aceh province with much-needed care including psychosocial assistance. Of course, clean water, food, shelter, medicine, and clothing must be provided, but these children also need early intervention to deal with the emotional trauma they have endured due to the disaster. Many have lost both parents, brothers, sisters, and extended families in the tsunami. Week of Compassion will be present throughout the year serving on your behalf in the name of our Lord. |