Earthquake Update: Hats off to New Zealand donors

Donations from New Zealanders to World Vision's Bam earthquake appeal have topped $120,000, and it's hoped the aid agency will be able to match the New Zealand Government's pledge of $200,000 by the end of this week.

Funds raised are helping provide much needed tents and family survival kits for the thousands of homeless families now living on the streets of Bam after the Boxing Day earthquake devastated their city.

New Zealander James Addis, who has been in Bam since January 3 and is living under canvas himself, says the nights are freezing cold, and the people are very grateful for the help they're receiving. He took the photo of six year old Narjes Tajabadi giving a cheerful flourish of her Minnie Mouse hat after her family benefited from a World Vision tent.

After the worst earthquake in living memory hit her home town of Bam, Narjes' house was unsafe, and she and her family have been living under canvas. However, Narjes, like children everywhere, is adaptable. She says most of the time she actually enjoys tent life because it is different and exciting, although a tent can have its downside.

"During the night I sometimes get frightened and I don't feel safe. Then I would prefer to be in my own room," she says.

She also says living so closely with other family members is not always easy. She should know. During the past eight days, 23 members of her extended family have been crammed into a tent designed to accommodate 16.

Not surprising then that her grandfather Ali Tajabadi is delighted with the new accommodation, which will relieve the pressure on living space.

He has this message for World Vision donors who had made it all possible.

"Please send this message to all the people in many countries who support World Vision. We are really thankful for your sympathy in this time of need. We send our warm greetings. We will not forget this."

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