Earthquake in Indonesia
On April 11, 2012, an 8.7 magnitude earthquake shook the Indian Ocean region, in particular the western coast of Aceh (Indonesia) that was the epicentre of the devastating 2004 tsunami. Building on lessons learned from that event, a tsunami alert was in place throughout the morning and the Red Cross Society of Indonesia (PMI) responded immediately, evacuating affected communities and mobilizing emergency supplies, ambulances and first aid teams.
The Canadian Red Cross has a long history of helping to build stronger, healthier and more resilient communities in the region and is ready to assist with emergency supplies and personnel if needed.
Canadian Red Cross programming in Indonesia started with a commitment to build back better following the 2004 tsunami, targeting 49 communities in the disaster-prone provinces of Aceh and Nias. Since 2005, the Canadian Red Cross constructed more than 5,450 safe and permanent houses for thousands of residents. Today, the Canadian Red Cross has shifted its focus from recovery to supporting the Indonesian Red Cross and targeted communities in enhancing their capacity to mitigate and manage disasters and other vulnerabilities.
The best way Canadians can support our emergency preparedness efforts in communities around the world is with a donation to the International Disaster Relief Fund (IDRF). This fund allows us to respond within hours of an emergency. It also allows us to implement disaster preparedness programs, such as training local volunteers and creating early warning systems, to create stronger and more resilient communities. To donate now, please call 1-800-418-1111 or click here to donate online.
