The Rev. William G. Sinkford, President of the Unitarian Universalist Association, has announced that the UUA is joining with the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee to send aid to disaster-affected countries struck by an earthquake and tsunami on December 26. The disasters have killed tens of thousands and caused billions of dollars in damage to over fifteen countries, with death tolls and damage estimates still climbing.

Sunday's initial earthquake struck 100 miles off the coast of Indonesia's Sumatra Island at around 7:00 a.m., measuring 9 in magnitude on the Richter scale, and was part of a powerful series of earthquakes that triggered enormous tidal waves which swept across the Indian Ocean, striking coastal regions of Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Thailand, Bangladesh, Burma and Malaysia. The tsunami also swept across the low-lying islands that make up the Maldives and brought destruction as far away as coastal East Africa. Along India's southeastern coast, several villages are reported to have been swept away, and thousands of fishermen—including 2,000 from the (Madras) Chennai area, who were out at sea when the seismic waves swept across the waters and have not returned. Thankfully, the Unitarian Church in Chennai is reported not affected by the tsunami.

A girl cries in the arms of her mother near the ruin of their home in Banda Aceh, Indonesia.

Millions of people are homeless and the disaster survivors face impending disease from polluted drinking water, dead bodies and lack of sanitation. Sinkford said, "I urge all Unitarian Universalists to be generous, in this season of light and giving, and to help the UU Service Committee bring aid to those who have been touched by this unspeakable tragedy."

He continued, "I send my prayers and offer my deepest compassion to the survivors and their families, and grieve the loss of the many thousands who died in this horrendous tragedy."

The Unitarian Universalist Service Committee is accepting contributions for relief and reconstruction in the areas affected by the tsunami. A portion of the aid funds will be channeled through three grassroots, indigenous organizations that are partners of the UUA's Holdeen India fund. Dr. Charlie Clements, President of the UUSC, stated that the Service Committee will work with partner organizations in other tsunami-affected countries to identify priority needs by area.

Donations can be made through the UU Service Committee's website, or checks may be made out to 'UUSC,' noting that the donation is for Tsunami Relief in the memo box.

Checks can be mailed to:
Tsunami Relief Fund
UU Service Committee
130 Prospect Street
Cambridge, MA 02139