This project has been completed.

United In Diversity

In continued tsunami relief efforts, Wellspring worked with the Indonesia based organization, United in Diversity, to provide "Food Aids Relief" for 18 villages and over 5,000 people on the island of Nias. This project provided aid to many still recovering from the December 2004 tsunami and subsequent earthquake in March of 2005. The tsunami caused tremendous devastation and a loss of all housing, and the earthquake, with a magnitude of 8.7, resulted in the collapse of most remaining structures, as well as greater loss of life and quality of life for those who survived. Although the emergency stage has passed and reconstruction is taking place, unemployment is at a record high, and the people still struggle to feed their children.

In this project our efforts will not only contribute to the revitalization of Indonesia’s economy but also bring a practical healing touch to the people. Each family received a 45 pound package consisting of items selected by the people themselves when asked what provisions would be of greatest value and benefit to them. The delivered box included milk, coffee, crackers, sardines, cooking oil, tea and other necessary items, and was accompanied by a 12 pound bag of rice.

Through a lengthy and thorough interview and investigation process, individuals in need were identified, and the delivery system prioritized in lending aid to widows and single mothers first, followed by the remainder of the community. Coupons were then labeled and distributed accordingly. This method first relieves the burden upon the most vulnerable in society we aim to come alongside-women and children-and also establishes a system for organized disbursement.

On April 6, UID launched the Wellspring sponsored effort and personally delivered the packages to each family. On this day people exchanged their coupon for one package and rice and received provisions necessary for health and quality of life.

While the road to recovery will be long, we thank God for the success of this effort and prayerfully and thoughtfully consider how we may continue to aid in this process. As for the value of this first effort, the pictures speak for themselves...

View Photos from this project.