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The Tree Foundation has been built upon the
belief that it is better to help a few people get
on their feet and generate sufficient
economic income that not only they are self
sufficient, but also contribute to the
success and growth of their communities.
Clearly in the desperate time around the
Tsunami, humanitarian aid was the first
priority of the foundation. Following
donations from many people and companies,
and after the visit of Sacha Zackariya,
Foundation Co-founder, in January 2005, the
foundation has been able
to deploy resources to fill in the gaps left
behind by the government, international NGOs
and other charitable agencies. Initially
this included providing hundreds of cooking
stoves, lamps, mosquito nets, constructing
and equipping fishing boats, baby clothing,
roofing materials and many other items.
However as time has gone on the core
abilities of the foundation to rebuild
people's lives has proven to be essential.
The foundation has been invaluable in
helping shop-keepers, mechanics and other
professionals get started in their trade
again.
The Tree Foundation is bringing economic
activity and hope to those who would
otherwise be left behind. But there are many
more who we are still turning away. Sadly
even now as we come in to 2007 much of the
generous money donated and pledged by
governments does not seem to be enough. We
are using our resources to help people
through this difficult period, but we must
stress that we need further funds to
continue the longer term work of rebuilding
peoples lives. |
