Deadly earthquake and tsunami struck Indonesia Over 2.4 million people are in urgent need of assistance

The powerful 7.5 magnitude earthquake and following tsunami hit the island of Sulawesi, Indonesia on Friday 28 September.  At least 2,000 people are found dead and over 2.4 million people are affected.

The earthquake and tsunami have caused at least 2,000 deaths.(Photo: MUHAMMAD RIFKI/ AFP)

Thousands of houses have collapsed and roads are destroyed. Electricity and communication networks are cut off in the region. Meanwhile, airport facilities are damaged in the quake, hampering humanitarian aid response.

Houses are destroyed and crumbled. (Photo: JEWEL SAMAD/ AFP）

“Many children are now living out in the open without shelter and food. Some of them have become separated from their families in the chaos, and these children in particular will be feeling especially fearful,” said Kanie Siu, CEO of Plan International Hong Kong. She has expressed concern about the well-being of children caught up in the disaster.

“With the multiple aftershocks continuing to cause fear and uncertainty, it is vital that children get the support they need. Our team will work to ensure that the distinct needs of girls and women are taken into account and met too.”

Plan International deployed an emergency response team to the affected areas to conduct a rapid needs assessment of the impact on children and families in the region. We will provide support to 10,000 families over the next six months and your donation can help provide critical emergency supports, like:

• Shelter and blankets
• Clean water and establishment of sanitation facilities and bathing spaces (separated by sex)
• Hygiene supplies, including vital items like soap and dignity kits for women and girls
• Child protection, including aid to reunite separated children, psychosocial support and the creation of child-friendly spaces

Plan International deployed an emergency response team to the affected areas to conduct a rapid needs assessment. We will provide support to 10,000 families over the next six months.

Hygiene and shelter kits being distributed to the affected families in Indonesia.

During emergencies, children are especially vulnerable and exposed to numerous threats. Please lend them a helping hand!

Plan International has been providing relief items to children affected by the Lombok earthquake back in August.