We continue to read horrific reports concerning the aftermath of the 6.2 Richter scale earthquake which struck the Southwestern coast of Java and impacted the Indonesian city of Yogyakarta last Saturday.

I’d like to share specific information about some key UN agencies and the work they are engaged in to assist the 100,000 earthquake survivors, and also provide links to their sites where secure online donations can be made by individuals and companies.

It is a devastating thought to realize many of the victims were peacefully sleeping when the earthquake hit and as a result caused the destruction of 100,000 homes, 269, schools, 284 religious institutions, 302 government buildings and many miles of roads and also bridges. Many of the news reports indicated the victims were “entombed” in the very beds they slept in.

In the meantime, several United Nations agencies have been a supportive and merciful presence in terms of humanitarian relief efforts. Teams from the United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination have been working tirelessly at the Yogyakarta airport to ensure relief supplies from international donors are received and distributed in the most expedient way possible.

The World Health Organization has been finding a shortage of crucial medical supplies and medicines. These medicines include antibiotics and anesthetics. With an estimated 100,000 needing medical attention, reportedly 400 medical staff personnel from other regions have arrived in the city of Yogyakarta to offer medical services to the injured. From reports I’ve read from the United Nations News Bureau, the hospitals are filled beyond capacity and it has been very challenging for the medical teams to do their work. In light of the shortage of medicines and supplies, the task becomes even more overwhelming.
The World Food Program is immersed in distributing nourishing food supplies to the area, and reports now indicate that the price of rice has increased by 10-15% making the cost exorbitant for poor, struggling families in the area. With the injured being traumatized by the event, it would seem food and nourishment would offer the only consolation, but the medical teams and religious organizations offer hope.

Right now, contributions are most urgently needed to help in the distribution of food and medical supplies.

For more information:
United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs
http://ochaonline.un.org
World Health Organization:
http://un.who.int