Saturday May 27, 2006 ' The Salvation Army has launched an immediate response after an earthquake measuring 6.2 on the Richter scale struck the island of Java, flattening buildings in a densely populated area south of the city of Yogyakarta. The latest media reports indicate more than 2,800 people have been killed and thousands more injured.

The leader of The Salvation Army in Indonesia, Commissioner Johannes Watilete, has instructed key personnel to the site. The Salvation Army has a number of experienced emergency response teams in Indonesia, known as 'Compassion in Action' units. The Army's medical team based in Semarang is establishing a medical/health tent in Bantul village.

The Salvation Army operates a Boys Home close to the impacted area. The Director, Major Amelia Tatilang, reports that a lot of houses and buildings have collapsed or suffered extensive damage. Speaking soon after the quake, Major Tatilang said, 'The surrounding wall at the Boy's Home collapsed in the quake. The boy's bed rooms were damaged and also their function room.'

The most desperate immediate need is for food, shelter, clothing and medicine. Donations can be made by at www.SalvationArmy.ca or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY. Please designate your gift for the South Pacific and East Asia Disaster Fund.

The Salvation Army serves in 111 countries throughout the world, and has been active in Indonesia for over 110 years. It began its work in Canada in 1882 as a Christian movement with an acute social conscience. With more than 120 years experience, The Salvation Army continues to provide professional services that are relevant to the diverse needs of vulnerable people and their communities.

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For further information please contact:

Andrew Burditt
andrew_burditt@can.salvationarmy.org

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