 |
|
UMCOR Responds to a Devastating Earthquake in ChinaDate: March 11, 2003 
On February 24, 2003 the Xinjiang Autonomous Region of China was struck with an earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale. UMCOR is working with the Amity Foundation, an ecumenical partner with a long presence in China, to provide assistance to the relief and rehabilitation efforts. Amity Foundation has finished the assessment of needs in the region.
According to Amity Foundation's report, 268 people were killed and more than 4,000 injured, of which 2058 seriously. Over 8,800 houses were flattened and more than 9,000 seriously damaged. 103 village schools and 16 clinics were severely damaged and water and power supply facilities in some areas completely destroyed.
Government relief activities are well under way. Materials are being transported to the quake-hit areas. The victims are being care for, and the basic needs taken care of. However, there are still great need. The snowfall and low temperatures have made life very difficult for people who do not have adequate shelter and protection against the elements.
The townships that have been affected by the earthquake are very poor. The average annual net income per capita is only about 800 yuan (about $72). The local government has already designed a rehabilitation plan that should be finished by September, 2003. However, funds are short. Therefore, support by friends at home and abroad are greatly encouraged and welcomed.
Your contributions to International Disaster Response Advance #982450 designated "China earthquake" on the memo line of your check will help fund their work. For example, one family-sized tent can be purchased for $266, a quilt for $10, a house for $726, a school for $12,099 and a water tower for $9680. Your generosity will be a gift of hope to townships whose average annual net income per capita is about $72. One hundred percent of your gift goes to this emergency. The generous giving of United Methodists to the One Great Hour of Sharing supplements the cost of Advance gifts. Give through your local United Methodist church or send financial contributions to: UMCOR, 475 Riverside Dr., Room 330, New York, NY 10115. Call (800) 554-8583 to make a credit card donation. Click here to make a secure online gift.
Photo: Xinjiang earthquake on February 24, 2003 (Xinhua): Victims try their best to overcome difficulties caused by the massive earthquake, which measured 6.8 on the Richter scale, rocking Jiashi and Bachu Counties of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Monday morning. By February 26, the death toll related to the earthquake had risen to 260 people, leaving over 2,000 injured. Credit: New China Photo Service, Hong Kong