USPG supports Diocese of Polynesia’s Tsunami Response
USPG is sending emergency funding to the islands of Tonga, which were hit by tsunami waves in the past week. The agency is sending £3000 from its Rapid Respond Fund to support our partners in the Diocese of Polynesia through the Anglican Missions’ Tonga Emergency Appeal.
Three people are dead and many homes have been destroyed by the tsunami, which was triggered by the eruption of the underwater Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano on 14 January.
The Church is carefully monitoring the situation and is ready to undertake a more extensive needs assessment as information comes through but potential damage includes contaminated water and food supplies as a result of ashfall.
The Diocese of Polynesia and Anglican Missions are responding through existing supply spots at each of the Anglican parishes on the islands, enabling them to react immediately to the disaster. USPG’s support will be used to replenish the relief supplies in these parishes.
Rebecca Boardman, USPG’s Regional Manager for East Asia and Oceania, said, ‘At times of crisis, the Church is a critical actor in supporting the immediate needs of its communities. Through our Rapid Response Fund, USPG is privileged to support our brothers and sisters in Polynesia as they respond at this difficult time. We ask for your continued prayers for the people of Tonga.’
Rev’d Duncan Dormor, USPG General Secretary, said, ‘We hold the people of Tonga in our prayers as they respond to the devastating tsunami. We think particularly of the Diocese of Polynesia, our cherished partners, as they care for local communities at this time.’
Donate to USPG’s Rapid Response Fund here.