MISSISSAUGA, Ont. (Apr. 21, 2009) — World Vision is responding to a new wave of internally displaced persons (IDPs) as more than 25,000 civilians flee Sri Lanka’s conflict zone. Government troops have continued their offensive against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) as the conflict narrows to a smaller strip of land in the north.

"Tens of thousands of people have been flooding into government-controlled areas. We know from those who have fled earlier that these new waves of internally displaced survivors will be in great need, having been caught in the middle of a war zone for weeks. There is a great need for medicines, food and shelter," said Suresh Bartlett, World Vision Sri Lanka’s National Director.

The needs of children and their families are paramount in times of conflict and displacement such as this. In recent weeks, food packets have been provided to more than 25,000 IDPs. On a daily basis, nearly 70,000 litres of water are being distributed in camps where those who have already been displaced are being helped.

World Vision is also setting up temporary learning spaces with activities for hundreds of war-affected children.

The urgency for civilians to move from the conflict zone came after the government gave the LTTE a 24-hour window to surrender or face further military action, according to a defence spokesperson. That deadline has now passed and the have vowed no surrender.

World Vision is continuing to call on Canada to support the government of Sri Lanka in taking immediate steps to outline a durable peace process and plan that addresses the root causes of the conflict, that works to empower communities and local governance, and that helps restore basic services and critical infrastructure.

World Vision donors support more than 61,577 children in Sri Lanka, including 17,500 children sponsored by Canadians. Sponsored children are not in the conflict zone. World Vision began working in Sri Lanka in 1977.

World Vision is a Christian relief, development and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. World Vision serves all people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender.

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To interview World Vision staff, please contact:

Yoko Kobayashi
905-565-6200 ext. 2151
416-671-0086 (cell)
yoko_kobayashi@WorldVision.ca

Alex Sancton
905-565-6200 ext. 3979
416-419-1321 (cell)
alex_sancton@WorldVision.ca