International development work is based on partnerships that encourage respect and trust between those implementing the projects and those providing the necessary support and funding.
The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory has a longstanding association and close partnership with the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) to provide the funding necessary for demanding and complex overseas projects. Although this relationship became strained a few years ago (partnerships take work to maintain), it is with delight that we share the good news of a relationship renewed!
The international Salvation Army was among the first to respond to countries hardest hit by the devastating tsunami in Southeast Asia on December 26, 2004. It was all the more possible for the Army, because we were already present and active in ministry throughout the region.
The Canada and Bermuda Territory has provided financial support to reconstruction projects in Indonesia (see report, page 15), India and as the lead donor in Sri Lanka. With a total budget of $9.8 million, this project would not be possible if it were not for the $3.2 million matching dollars received from CIDA in a signed contribution agreement in March 2006.
The financial support from CIDA and other territories has made it possible for our territory to respond to more than just the basic needs of the tsunami victims. In Sri Lanka, 520 houses will be built in the southwestern and southeastern districts of the island. In addition, 2,360 women will be given livelihood support so that they will be able to care for their families. Six community centres will be built, which will ensure that the needs of children and youth and women will be met for years to come.
In recent days the escalating violence in Sri Lanka has added a complexity to the project. This will be an ongoing concern and we solicit your prayers for the team providing leadership to this project.
International projects and the signing on of donor partners takes time and may cause some to wonder about what accomplishments have been achieved during the years of negotiating. This is not an unfair question, but one we are pleased to answer. One hundred new homes have been built and handed over to beneficiary families in Galagodawatte, Galle, along with care packages, support to fishermen and local income generating projects.
The tsunami reconstruction project in Sri Lanka is the beginning of a renewed partnership between CIDA and The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory. In September 2005, the world mission office hired a project writer and manager, Manjita Biswas, who brings more than 10 years of international development experience to the department, experience that is rooted in a personal relationship with Christ. Manjita provides oversight and direction to the tsunami project in Sri Lanka and has developed a concept paper that has been approved by the Canadian Partnership Branch of CIDA. The world mission department is now working to finalize the project, which involves various developing countries meeting needs that are in keeping with the UN Millennium Goals.
by Major Gillian Brown
Associate Director of World Missions, THQ Business Administration Services