Washington, D.C., May 30, 2006 – “The American Public Health Association (APHA) today expresses its deepest sympathy for the thousands of victims of Saturday’s earthquake that struck the Indonesian city of Yogyakarta and areas along the southern coast of Indonesia's Java island. This massive natural disaster killed more than 5,000 and has reportedly left 200,000 people homeless, many of whom have been forced to live temporarily in shacks and shelters.
“Relief organizations are working to transfer food, water, medical supplies and other necessities into the region, and we at APHA give our full support to the aid efforts in Indonesia. This latest tragedy is reminiscent of the 2004 tsunami that also ravaged parts of South Asia, and we recognize the urgent need to provide adequate resources to protect the health of survivors of this disaster. APHA has a long history of concern for social welfare issues, and many of our members work internationally, often in nations affected by massive population displacements caused by natural disasters and other health emergencies.
“We encourage our members to donate as generously as possible to the ongoing relief efforts and have made available a list of reputable international aid organizations. We express our sympathy and support for the people of Indonesia at this time of great need.”
For more information on disaster-related resources, please visit Earthquake in South Asia or Information on Aid for Tsunami Tragedy Victims.