With torrential rain and gales beating down on central and eastern Sri Lanka for nearly two weeks, more than 500,000 people are now stranded without basic supplies, and urgent requests for aid are coming in from the eastern province, particularly from the worse affected districts of Batticaloa , Polonnaruwa and Ampara.
Sarvodaya is mobilizing resources to respond to the emergency and distribute emergency relief aid, but much more is needed.
Setting its disaster preparedness plans in action through its centers in the districts in close coordination with Government authorities, Sarvodaya is providing aid to families in the form of emergency dry rations, blankets, clothing, medical and sanitary supplies.
1,000 rupees (less than $10) can provide enough food to feed a family of five for two days, and Sarvodaya is preparing packages containing: 5kg rice, 1 packet of milk powder, 100g tea leaves, 1kg sugar, 1kg lentils, 1kg potatoes, salt, spices and 2 coconuts. These packages will be distributed in the villages where families are able to remain at home.
In the villages where flooding has forced people to abandon their homes, Sarvodaya staff are bringing cooking utensils and food supplies to community centers, so that hot meals can be prepared and distributed.
Sarvodaya is seeking donations to provide food, clothing and blankets; medical supplies; sanitary items; and tents or other forms of temporary shelter. Sarvodaya – JDC Community Disaster Management Centre (S-J-CDMC) in Moratuwa is operating around the clock to coordinate the relief efforts.
The Situation Report published by the Disaster Management Centre of Sri Lanka as at 10th January can be found with the following link.
Situation Report – Disaster Management Centre of Sri Lanka – 10th January, 2011
For more information on how you can assist the people affected by floods please contact Mr. Saman Algoda, the Executive Director (0774394577, [email protected]) or Mr. Chamindha Rajakaruna, Director-Programmes (0777710205, [email protected]), or call the general lines on 2655255 or 2647159.
You can also make your contributions through the Online Payment Gateway at Sarvodaya website