Mississauga, ON—World Vision Canada has received a grant of $200,000 from the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) to support the organization's relief efforts in Indonesia following the 6.3 magnitude earthquake on May 27.

"This CIDA grant will increase our ability to meet the immediate, basic needs of earthquake survivors," said Dave Toycen, president of World Vision Canada. "We commend CIDA for its rapid decision-making and sizeable commitment to this emergency that positions Canada on par with all major international donors."

The grant complements $300,000 donated by Canadian citizens to World Vision Canada for relief aid since the quake hit on Saturday. The CIDA funding will help World Vision Canada assist an additional 2,000 families with emergency shelter and essential non-food items including mats, towels, clothing, cooking utensils, soap, and water containers.

World Vision's Response

By June 3, World Vision will have distributed:

• 7,000 kits for families that include clothing, blankets, mats, soap, kitchen supplies and tarps.
• Medical equipment including gloves, stretchers, cots and IV material to local hospitals.
• High-energy biscuits to children under five years old to help safeguard health and nutrition levels.

World Vision in Indonesia

• World Vision has worked with children and families in Indonesia since 1961.
• World Vision has extensive, long-term development work in Indonesia including: food aid, education, agriculture, nutrition and health, water supply and sanitation, gender and development, income generation, vocational training, and infrastructure rehabilitation.
• Some 71,064 Indonesian children are sponsored by World Vision supporters, including 23,605 children sponsored by Canadians.
• World Vision has constructed homes and schools in Indonesia following the 2004 tsunami.
• World Vision operates in seven regions of Indonesia: greater Jakarta, Papua, West Kalimantan, North Moluccas, East Java, East Nusa Tenggara, and Central Sulawesi.

World Vision Canada is appealing for $1 million to care for earthquake survivors. Canadians can donate by calling 1 800 268-5528 or click here to donate online.