Asia

Tsunami Disaster Relief and Development in India, Thailand, Sri Lanka and Indonesia (2005-2010)

The December 26, 2004 underwater earthquake and tsunamis commanded the world's attention in an unprecedented way. This disaster, which killed approximately 295,000 people and displaced as many as five million, affected the coastal areas of eleven countries in the Indian Ocean. JDC has raised over $19 million for the Tsunami Response Program, which is being carried out in the four most severely affected countries: India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.

Projects are implemented in partnership with local and international organizations, and in coordination with local authorities. In India JDC has partnered with the Disaster Mitigation Institute, the VSD Trust, Pondicherry Multipurpose Service Society, World ORT and its local partner Bharatiya Jain Sanghatana, Magen David Adom, Brit Olam/Topaz, and Caritas/Catholic Relief; in Indonesia JDC is partnering with the Dwi Yuna Jaya Foundation and the International Rescue Committee; in Sri Lanka JDC is working with a renowned local organization Sarvodaya, as well as with UJA-Federation of New York and the Israel Trauma Coalition, US Agency for International Development, the Bush-Clinton Tsunami Relief Fund, Rotary/Sri Lanka, and the Sunera Foundation; and in Thailand JDC has partnered with Chabad, the Israeli Embassy, the King Foundation, the Prince of Songkla University, and Mom Dusdi Paribatra (President of the Asia Europe Association). In addition, JDC is partnering with the renowned local Thai organization, Population and Community Development Association, and with MASHAV, the international development arm of the Israeli Foreign Ministry. The Jewish Coalition for Asia Tsunami Relief has supported programs in each of the four countries.

The provision of emergency assistance to internally displaced persons (IDPs) has been one element of JDC's tsunami response, and has included the donation of emergency supplies and two ambulances, as well as upgrading facilities for those seeking refuge in IDP camps. Helping victims of the tsunami to re-establish their livelihoods, through such initiatives as the establishment of a fishing co-op, has been a key strategic tool in working towards economic rehabilitation. Local communities have also been rehabilitated through the creation of model villages and community centers. Activities that assist children have been a cornerstone of JDC's effort, and have included the construction of playgrounds and primary schools, teacher training, and healing camps. Lastly, JDC's efforts have included the provision of much-needed psychosocial support services.

JDC has also convened and is coordinating the thirty-nine-member Jewish Coalition for Asia Tsunami Relief which is enabling North American Jewish organizations to coordinate efforts, avoid duplication, and make the best use of donor dollars. Through the Coalition's mailbox $890,000 was raised, all of which has been programmed.