Here are some highlights from a busy day
 
The overall situation in Sri Lanka:
 
The number of deaths as a result of the Tsunami continue to rise. Numbers as of 1030 on the 31st December 2004 stand at just over 27,500. A further 12,482 are injured and 4832 remain missing. However, most of those who have survived have also lost their homes, livelihoods and all their belongings. There are over 1 million people homeless, and rebuilding to provide homes for all these people will take a long time. Your money could help support rebuilding projects.

For a detailed account of the situation, see the website for the Centre for National Operations.
 

Fundraising

* Apart for many emails, we have today sent out hundreds of appeal letters by post.
* 14 piano-accordionists gave an impromptu concert in Bournemouth High Street this morning - and raised nearly £1000 - I know, because our daughter-in-law Kim was one of them!
* Our own church in Woodbridge is helping our appeal over the next two weekends, and I know of other UK churches becoming involved.

Website

Our daughter Lesley, a teacher in Colombo Sri Lanka, has quickly put together a website so you can track progress:  please visit www.geocities.com/hoveraid_sri_lanka  There are some excellent links (like the situation report copied above), and all the details & photos about the relief aid distribution on the People's Church website (see Tsunami Disaster Aid - relief records & images).
 

Relief Aid

People's Church Relief has access to large quantities of pure water, and suitable containers for transportation.

The needs are urgent, and changing daily.  The longer-term intention is to focus aid in a limited number of defined areas where it can have the most impact.

PCR are preparing a special update for HoverAid, so that we can keep everyone informed of progress.
 
 

We will keep issuing regular updates for you, posted here.

Finally, a word of thanks to the HoverAid Directors and Volunteers who have encouraged the launch of this appeal - and the many messages of support.

Mike Holdsworth
(for HoverAid Trust)