ADRA Fiji is providing food packs, which include rice, milk, split peas, sugar and tuna, to approximately 12,000 people sheltering in evacuation centres on the island of Vanua Levu, in the Northern Division. These basic food items are expected to supplement current food rations for up to two weeks.

“This disaster has had a significant impact on the people of Fiji, although we’re pleased to hear that there has been minimal loss of life,” said ADRA Australia’s Director of Emergency Management, Chris Olafson. “ADRA is the principal agency currently responding with food distribution in this disaster, working closely with the Fijian government. Following this emergency intervention, we will continue to assess people’s needs to provide other appropriate support. Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Fiji at this time.”

ADRA Australia’s support for this immediate intervention is provided from its Disaster Preparedness and Response Fund, which enables timely and appropriate emergency support to communities overseas and in Australia. Donations can be made to ADRA Australia’s Disaster Preparedness and Response Fund by calling 1800 242 372 or visiting www.adra.org.au.

Tropical cyclone Tomas formed north of Wallis Island and northwest of Samoa on Friday, 12 March, curving southward toward Fiji over the following three days, hitting the country on 14 and 15 March. In that time, it grew from a category 1 to a category 4 storm, reaching peak intensity with estimated average winds of 175km/hr, with momentary guts up to 230km/hr. Full assessments of the devastation are continuing.

ADRA Australia is a non-government organisation (NGO) engaging in sustainable development projects and emergency management activities for people in need in Australia, the Pacific, Asia and Africa. It is a member of the Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS) and has full accreditation with the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID). It is a member of the Australian Council for International Development (ACFID) and is a signatory to ACFID’s Code of Conduct. ADRA Australia is part of the international ADRA network, which has a presence in 125 countries. ADRA is the worldwide humanitarian arm of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. For more information about ADRA Australia, or to sign up for free email updates, visit www.adra.org.au.