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A rescue operation is underway to save over 25,000 people still buried under rubble and mud, after an earthquake measuring 7.8 on the Richter Scale hit western China. In response, MRDF will help provide relief supplies to families in the most vulnerable communities.

Nearly 20,000 people were killed when the earthquake struck Sichuan province on May 12. In the town of Yingxiu, in Wenchuan County, less than a quarter of the 10,000-strong population survived, and 178 children died as they took a midday nap at their school in Qingchuan County.

With communication lines and transport links down and poor weather hampering rescue efforts, the death toll is expected to rise.

A man and a child sit
amidst rubble in the rain,
following the earthquake.  

Photo: REUTERS/C Cortes IV
courtesy of www.alertnet.org

Doctors and other emergency workers had to walk to the epicentre to tend to the injured – arriving 24 hours after the earthquake. There are also reports of rescuers having to search through the rubble for survivors with their hands.

In some places, 80% of buildings have collapsed and officials estimate that 3.5 million homes have been destroyed. The extent of damage remains unclear in other areas because access is so limited. MRDF Director Kirsty Smith said: “This is the worst earthquake to hit China in over 30 years. Suddenly, many people have found themselves without clean water, food or shelter. As with so many of these emergency situations, responding swiftly is the key, and the need is exacerbated here by the poor weather and the extent of the destruction."

Through ACT (Action by Churches Together) International, MRDF’s support will help to provide 8,000 poor families with enough food for the emergency period. Each family will receive a quilt and a sheet of plastic cloth, as many survivors are living in the open air and heavy rains are expected in the areas that the earthquake struck. MRDF will also be involved in long-term rehabilitation by supporting the reconstruction of 600 houses, five hospitals or clinics and drinking-water systems, as well as the construction of ten schools. All relief materials will be purchased locally.

To donate to MRDF's appeal for China by credit or debit card, call 020 7224 4814.
Or you can donate by cheque, payable to “MRDF (China emergency)”, and posted to MRDF, Methodist Church House,
25 Marylebone Road, London, NW1 5JR.

Taxpayers are encouraged to gift aid their donations where possible, adding 28p to every pound they give, at no extra personal cost.

Thank you.