29/12/2004

Caritas Australia is working on the ground through a local network operating in the worst affected countries of India, Sri Lanka and Indonesia.

As more and more bodies wash ashore in Sri Lanka Caritas assessment teams are on the ground working in the three regions directly affected. The immediate relief assistance includes food, drinking water and clothing. Purification of drinking water is a priority as the sea water has contaminated the existing drinking water sources. Medicine for sickness and injuries is being distributed at the various camps. Baby food is also being supplied.

In India Caritas has sent eight assessment teams to affected areas. Medical relief has commenced and schools and churches are being utilised for accommodation. 800 camps have been established and cooked food and water purification tablets are being supplied. Volunteers from other districts are being utilised to assist in the recovery. Bishops and priests are overwhelmed with mass funerals and burials for the victims of the disaster.