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Sudan Crisis
A humanitarian crisis affecting millions of peoples

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Starting Over in Sri Lanka

Tsunami Journals: A Donor's View

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Slideshow: CARE's Tsunami Relief Work
Tsunami photo gallery
Slideshow: Tsunami Response at the Six-Month Mark

Indian Ocean Tsunami

On December 26, 2004, an earthquake off the coast of Indonesia caused a tsunami in the Indian Ocean, devastating coastal communities from Somalia to Indonesia and killing over 200,000 people. CARE responded immediately and has committed to a five-year recovery effort to help survivors of this unprecedented tragedy.


Background
The Indian Ocean tsunami was a rare intercontinental disaster that struck some 14 countries in Asia and Africa. The earthquake released stored energy equivalent to more than 23,000 Hiroshima bombs, creating waves up to 65 feet high at landfall. An estimated 229,000 people were killed and millions of people were affected by the loss of loved ones, homes and livelihoods. But the disaster also attracted unprecedented public generousity and goodwill, as American and international donors opened their hearts and wallets to help survivors of the tragedy. Together, CARE's supporters contributed $185 million to our emergency relief and rehabilitation efforts.

CARE's Work
Over the past two years, CARE has reached some 600,000 survivors in India, Indonesia, Somalia, Sri Lanka and Thailand with lifesaving aid and support. CARE's primary concern is to get people back into permanent houses and help them be better prepared for future disasters. We also work closely with affected communities to improve their access to clean water and sanitation, health services (including mental health) and livelihood opportunities.

Read more about CARE's work in India, Indonesia, Somalia, Sri Lanka and Thailand.

Reports
CARE's detailed reports provide updates and information about the tsunami recovery effort at the six-month and one-year marks.


CARE's response to emergencies like the Indian Ocean tsunami is made possible thanks to the dedicated support of our donors. Your gift today can help us respond quickly and effectively whenever and wherever disaster strikes. Please consider making a gift to CARE today.