Indonesia
Because of its location off the west coast of Sumatra and south of Banda Aceh, Nias Island was close to the epicentre of the earthquake and suffered great loss of life and severe damage to property. Salvation Army Captain Yan Balla, district officer for the island, reports that Salvation Army personnel have been working in the areas hardest hit by the tsunami, delivering relief supplies and clothing in a coordinated effort with other church groups. Three Salvation Army nurses working in separate health centres on the island report that they are short of medication to fight the diseases, such as malaria and anaemia, which they expect to increase in the community in coming months.
Looking forward, The Salvation Army is committing itself to community rehabilitation and rebuilding the ruined homes, of which there are more than 200. It will also provide small loans to help people who have lost their businesses start to earn a living again.
Banda Aceh, North Sumatra
The region most severely damaged was cut-off from ground transportation immediately following the disaster. In preparation for the time when they are able to reach the area, The Salvation Army's Compassion in Action disaster relief teams have assembled supplies of body bags, masks, clothing, gloves, towels, food and bottled water, as well as first aid supplies. One team is already operating a post in Sofindo plantation area, providing first-aid and other medical treatment, and food.
South West India
The Salvation Army India South West Territory reports that it was quick to bring aid to the stricken areas along the south west tip of India. Many of those who lost their homes are living in extremely congested conditions in camps set up by the government. Working with the authorities, The Salvation Army delivered several hundred sets of bed sheets, mats, water containers and clothing, together with food, to people who have lost everything.
The Salvation Army high school in Kowdiar, Trivandrum, provided shelter for many until they were able to return to what remained of their homes, and the young people of the Salvation Army community church in Trivandrum collected clothing which they distributed to those who had lost their belongings.
The Salvation Army is working with the authorities to rehabilitate the communities, and is hoping to provide a safe water supply, housing for several families, replacement fishing boats and accommodation for several of the children who have been orphaned.
Salvation Army International Headquarters has deployed the following personnel to work with the local leadership in countries around the Indian Ocean:
To Chennai area (Madras), India:
- Lieut-Colonel Roland Sewell (IHQ)
To Indonesia:
- Lieut-Colonel Dawn Sewell (IHQ)
To Sri Lanka:
- Captain Mike McKee (IHQ)
Major Ted Horwood (USA Western Territory)
Captain Barrie Sampson (UK Territory)
Captain Peter Hammond (UK Territory)
Major Daryl Crowden (Australia)
Captain (Dr.) Bella Carroll
To Tamil Nadu area (India):
- Major Seth Le Leu (IHQ)
