The Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) representing 12 leading aid agencies, will tonight launch a television and radio appeal to deliver emergency aid to hundreds of thousands people caught up in the tsunami quake. Even before the appeal has been broadcast more than 80,000 people have already donated to this cause. But more money is needed. Donations can be made by calling Telephone: 0870 60 60 900 or online at: www.dec.org.uk

Alternatively donors can post cheques to: DEC tsunami earthquake appeal, PO Box 999, London EC3A 3AA. Cheques made payable: DEC tsunamil earthquake appeal

Brendan Gormley, Chief Executive for the DEC comments “Since Boxing Day, we’ve been watching with disbelief, the pictures of the tsunami caused by the quake across Asia that wiped out whole communities in minutes. Tens of thousands have been killed and millions left without water, food or shelter. Ordinary lives, like ours, have been devastated.

“British charities in the areas hardest hit are facing a huge challenge – they need to reach all those in need but must have the money to do this. In times of emergency such as this, it makes sense for agencies to come together and ask the public for help.”

The tsunami is possibly the worst natural disaster ever. For every person that has been killed, there are many families fighting for survival. People are scrambling in the mud and ruins looking for water, food and items to make shelter. However, the water is contaminated, sanitation systems have been destroyed and the disaster zone is now threatened with outbreaks for disease which the UN warns is likely to ‘double’ the death toll. Diseases like malaria, dengue fever and cholera can spread quickly especially in temperatures over 30 degrees.

People across the region need immediate help. They are crying out for blankets, clothes, food, water and medical supplies. In the longer term they will need help to rebuild their homes, livelihoods, and shattered lives.

WHAT YOUR MONEY WILL BUY

£15
Will by one family plastic sheeting a water container and purification tablets

£35
Provide family with enough food for a week

£100
Zinc sheeting and timber to help rebuild two family homes

Gormley concludes: ‘Anything you can give will really help someone in desperate need. So please do call and make a donation’

The Disasters Emergency Committee is an umbrella organisation which launches and coordinates the UK national appeal in response to major disasters overseas. Members of the DEC are: Action Aid, British Red Cross, CAFOD, Care International UK, Christian Aid, Concern, Help the Aged, Merlin, Oxfam, Save the Children, Tearfund, World Vision

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