DEC: Overwhelming public generosity in wake of tsunami quake crisis

30 December 2004

The DEC has received more than 524,000 phone calls since the hotlines opened on 28 December.

Brendan Gormley, DEC Chief Executive said: 'We have been overwhelmed by the generosity of the British public and continue to be humbled by their response.'

'Money pledged so far is already making a difference to people whose lives have been shattered by this crisis. Life saving supplies such as food, water, medicines and shelter are already getting through,' adds Brendan Gormley.

'But this is a crisis that is unprecedented in its scale. It will take many months and even years for communities to recover. So we ask the British public to continue in their generosity and support. The money is vital.'

The 24 hour donation line is 0870 60 60 900 or donate online at www.dec.org.uk .

Donations can also be sent by post to:

DEC Tsunami Earthquake Appeal, PO Box 999, London EC3A 3AA

Cheques made payable: DEC Tsunami Earthquake Appeal

Donations can also be taken at any high street bank.

£15	Will buy one family plastic sheeting a water container and purification tablets
£35	Provide family with enough food for a week
£100	Zinc sheeting and timber to help rebuild two family homes

The Disasters Emergency Committee is an umbrella organisation of Britain’s 12 leading aid agencies which launches and coordinates Britain’s national appeal in response to major disasters overseas.

Members of the DEC are: Action Aid, British Red Cross, CAFOD, CARE International UK, Christian Aid, Concern, Help the Aged, Merlin, Oxfam, Save the Children, Tearfund, World Vision.