SALT LAKE CITY — Eighteen months after a tsunami devastated Southeast Asia, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints continues to work with local officials to rebuild communities.
Thanks to generous donations, including fast offerings from Church members who go without two meals one day a month then contribute the value of the skipped meals, the Church has been able to concentrate on long-term needs in Thailand, Indonesia and Sri Lanka.
Church relief workers are helping people construct thousands of homes, build schools and health clinics, and install water and sanitation systems. They also have helped individuals acquire the necessary tools to return to their livelihood.
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Money and materials have been donated to construct fishing boats and purchase fishing nets.
- Sewing and weaving machines have been replaced and training centers have received equipment to teach people textile trade skills.
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Small business loans have been extended to help victims to provide for themselves and their families.
Elder Thomas Palmer, the Church’s welfare director in Indonesia, notes that victims and local officials have expressed gratitude for the assistance the Church has afforded. “They have welcomed the Church’s fundamental approach to help people help themselves.”
Church partners in this regional response include Islamic Relief Worldwide, the International Organization for Migration, the Adventist Development and Relief Agency and International Relief and Development