*~* An Example of One Church's Relief Efforts *~* Hey,Hey,Paula

On my Church's website lds.org, the following information was posted to assist individuals as to how they can help with the recent tragedy in South Asia:

Relief efforts for victims of Southern Asia disaster

Church Providing Emergency Relief in South Asia Disaster Area 28 December 2004

SALT LAKE CITY — Regional and local leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Asia are providing immediate assistance to disaster victims in the nations of South Asia affected by Sunday's earthquake and tsunamis. Local resources, supplemented by humanitarian funds from Church headquarters, are being used to purchase emergency medical supplies and other materials in the affected countries to speed relief to the most heavily impacted coastal areas.

A Welfare Services representative from Salt Lake City and the area welfare manager for Asia are traveling to the disaster area to complete an assessment in cooperation with government officials and international relief agencies. Assessment is an essential first step to ensure that assistance provided will be most effective in meeting needs and relieving suffering in this devastating tragedy.

"We are heartbroken to learn that thousands have lost their lives and extend our deepest sympathies to the families whose loved ones have perished in this disaster," said Bishop H. David Burton, presiding bishop of the Church. "We believe in the power of prayer. We encourage all to pray for those who are suffering as well as for those who are providing emergency relief."

Given the magnitude of the disaster, the Church expects that a major humanitarian response will be required.

All missionaries of the Church serving in the disaster area are safe and accounted for. Though information regarding Church members in the region remains incomplete, so far there are no reports of death or injury to members.

First Presidency Urges Generous Support for Asian Victims 29 December 2004

SALT LAKE CITY — The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is asking its 12 million members worldwide to donate generously to support humanitarian aid for disaster victims in southern Asia.

The First Presidency issued the following statement today:

"In association with other relief agencies, the Church is extending substantial humanitarian aid to the stricken people of southern Asia. We have representatives on the ground who are assessing needs and who are administering help.

"This coming Sunday, 2 January 2005, will be our regular fast day. In the present circumstances, we urge our people to remember in their prayers those in the devastated areas and to contribute most generously in fast offerings, which will make it possible for the Church to increase its aid to those whose suffering is so great."

As part of their religious practice, Latter-day Saints regularly fast on the first Sunday of each month. Church members donate the value of the two meals skipped during the fast (or more if their means allow) to their local congregation leader. These "fast offerings" are then used to care for the poor and the needy.

HOW CAN I HELP?

In time of disaster, we all want to help those who are suffering. However, managing donations of food, clothing and other supplies generated by well-meaning, individually organized relief efforts can divert needed manpower and attention away from critical needs.

The Church is in contact with relief agencies and government officials and is working to provide the kind of assistance that will be most effective in this devastating tragedy.

Church members who wish to help are encouraged to donate to fast offerings or to the humanitarian fund of the Church through their local wards. Donations can also be mailed to: Humanitarian Aid Fund, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 50 East North Temple Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84150 (or call 801-240-3544).

Online donations can be made at: LDS Humanitarian Services Giving Site

http://www.lds.org/ldsfoundation/welfare/welcome/0,7133,1325-1-9,00.html

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