In a short period of time, Indonesia was struck with several disasters. The country endured multiple earthquakes, hundreds of damaging aftershocks, a tsunami, and a volcanic eruption. Over 2,000 casualties were reported and thousands more were seriously injured. The devastation was extensive.

The first earthquake occurred on July 29th in Lombok, with the others occurring only days apart. These earthquakes ranged in magnitude from 6.2 to 7.0 with many aftershocks over 5.0.

On September 29th, an earthquake hit the island of Sulawesi and triggering a deadly tsunami. Reports confirm the tsunami’s waves reached nearly 20 feet high and travelled at approximately 800 km/h.

Homes were swept away, buildings and bridges collapsed, and roads buckled and cracked.

ADRA’s emergency response teams responded to both these disasters as soon as possible, but accessing all affected areas proved to be difficult. The damaged infrastructure made many areas inaccessible and delayed relief efforts. Hilly and remote regions proved even more difficult to reach. The lack of reliable communication further complicated the response.

Thanks to the support of the ADRA community, many people have been given hope.

On Saturday, October 20th, a benefit concert with singing, traditional Indonesian performances, and speeches from the various Indonesian diaspora groups was held at Crawford Adventist Academy in Toronto to raise funds for those affected by these disasters. A total of $20,000 was raised that night to assist for those affected by these disasters in Indonesia.

In Vancouver, a gala dinner raised over $10,000.

These efforts, combined with the other generous donations from our supporters helped to provide emergency supplies including, food, water, baby food and supplies, tents and tarps, blankets and medicine to thousands of survivors.

Your generous contributions have saved lives and has brought relief to those affected in Indonesia. We thank you for your support.