Solomon Islands Devastated by Floods

7 April 2014

Solomon Islands Devastated by Floods

Christian World Service has launched an appeal for the Solomon Islands after massive flooding caused extensive damage in Honiara and the province of Guadacanal.

CWS is appealing for funds to help locals provide practical and pastoral support to an estimated 52,000 people affected. The United Nations Office of the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has confirmed a total of 19 deaths so far.

Limited communication is making information difficult and CWS has been unable to contact all partners affected.

“The flooding is unprecedented and help will be needed for many months to come. Our partner churches are on the ground and we know they will be there to help their people. They will help the most vulnerable and the people who may have been forgotten in more large-scale efforts,” says Pauline McKay, National Director.

CWS Board member the Rev Prince Devanandan, Secretary of the Methodist Mission and Ecumenical is currently in Honiara where he has been meeting with the United Church. CWS has links with the Solomon Islands Christian Association and the Lauru Land Conference.

“We live in Christchurch. We know that it takes a few days for local people to assess what is needed, make provision for their own families and send in reports. It is important to strengthen the local response in emergencies and our partners will do this,” she added.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of the Solomon Islands at this time.

Donations to the Solomon Islands Flood Appeal can be made:
• On line and by direct deposit at http://cws.org.nz/donate
• By Phone with a credit card: 0800 74 73 72
• By Post to: CWS, PO Box 22652, Christchurch 8140

Christian World Service has been doing a world of good since 1945. It works with local groups in 20 countries who are making change happen so people can live a life free from poverty. CWS is a member of the ACT Alliance (Action by Churches Together) member of ACT Alliance, a global coalition of more than 140 churches and church related organisations that work together in the areas of humanitarian assistance, advocacy and community development.

ENDS

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