Catholic organisations in Australia are raising funds for flood victims in East Timor and Indonesia after Tropical Cyclone Seroja hit the countries on Sunday, killing more than 100 and leaving thousands homeless.
Salesian Missions Australia has launched an appeal for East Timor. Dili's population of more than 220,000 is in lockdown to tackle the nation's rising COVID transmission. Helping victims in the aftermath of the floods presents new challenges.
Tina Newton, director of Salesian Missions, said there is an urgent need for food, clean water and medicine. The Salesians’ Don Bosco Training Centre Comoro has been set up as a major relief centre, providing shelter and food for those who have lost their homes and possessions. The gymnasium and classrooms are being used for emergency accommodation by more than 3000 displaced persons.
The Veterans Care Association, another Catholic-backed organisation, has launched an urgent Go Fund Me appeal to help food, basic supplies and temporary shelter to those affected in East Timor, The Catholic Leader reports.
“The impending risk of disease, drowning, health support, water and food security are of the utmost concern,” VCA’s project director Michael Stone said.
“Emergency and medical resources are extremely limited and cut off everywhere.”
Caritas Australia is working with local partners, including churches and NGOs, to assess needs on the ground and provide immediate support to vulnerable communities. It is accepting donations for flood victims through Asia Emergency Appeal.
Salesian Missions Australia: https://givenow.com.au/salesianmissionstimorleste
Veterans Care Association: https://gofund.me/06c152fd
Caritas Australia: Asia emergency appeal
FULL STORY
Appeal for Timor Leste flood victims (Salesian Mission Australia)
Major flooding raises appeal for Dili victims (The Catholic Leader)
Over 100 deaths after Tropical Cyclone Seroja and torrential rain lead to flooding and landslides in Timor-Leste and Indonesia (Caritas Australia)
REALATED COVERAGE
Timor-Leste’s government to seek international help rebuilding after devastating, fatal floods (ABC News)
