After the tsunami hit on 26 December 2004, AFAP mobilised quickly. Its emergency and Logistics Coordinator, George Wells arrived in Sri Lanka on January 4. His role was to help coordinate the relief and rehabilitation efforts of its local partners in Galle, Dondra and Ampara. Initially this involved distribution of food, soft shelter, mattresses, school kits, cooking materials and medicines.

After the initial relief phase, AFAP and its partners began a number of projects including well cleaning, emergency community training, counseling and livelihoods programs, clean up and debris removal and the construction of temporary housing.

AFAP has since begun work on longer-term projects including the construction of 2 Community complexes. Along with the Brothers of Charity and with support from Monsanto Australia, AFAP has constructed the Village of Hope Complex in Kalmunai. They also worked with their community partner Talalla Bay and District Group to build a community centre in the Talalla Bay area.

Today, AFAP’s long-term rehabilitation programs in Sri Lanka continue with the implementation of further construction and livelihoods programs. They are also continuing their work in coastal and coral reef rehabilitation.

The latest information on our Relief efforts can be found here.