Sri Lanka humanitarian crisis appeal
Sri Lanka’s development has been severely disrupted by almost three decades of civil war and most recently, heavy flooding in early 2011.
The Sri Lanka Humanitarian Crisis Appeal funds a range of emergency humanitarian relief operations including immediate food, healthcare and shelter, as well as the long-term reconstruction of education infrastructure.
Caritas' response to floods
Caritas Australia has provided support to over 60,000 people affected by severe flooding, including:
- Food and safe drinking water
- Sanitary facilities
- Cooking utensils and supplies
- Water cans
- Mosquito coils and mats.
Caritas' response to conflict
Caritas Australia has provided support to thousands of people affected and/or displaced by internal conflict, including:
- Food and medical support for over 56,000 long-term internally displaced persons
- Establishing a preschool for 760 children
- Education and shelter for internally displaced persons.
Background
The 1983-2009 civil war between the Sri Lankan government and the Tamil Tigers (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam) killed between 60,000 and 100,000 people, many of them civilians, and displaced 500,000 more. While the battle in the north of Sri Lanka has ceased, the needs of those affected remains critical.
The 2011 monsoons caused flooding across much of the countries north-east, affecting approximately 1 million people. Over 200,000 people were displaced and forced to live in over 500 refugee camps with poor security, sanitation and access to clean drinking water. Nearly 400 acres of paddy fields were destroyed by the flooding.
The 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami had already severely affected the development of Sri Lanka. 38,000 Sri Lankans were killed, hundreds of thousands made homeless and industries such as fishing, tourism, banking and transport were decimated.
How you can help
Donate
Your donation will help Caritas Australia provide short and long-term programs for vulnerable communities in Sri Lanka. Donations $2 and over are tax dedctible. Donate now