NEWS RELEASE – June 3, 2008
China official expresses gratitude to World Vision for
USD15 million reconstruction aid
 Child receiving blanket to withstand the cold nights stay in temporary tents put up by World Vision China. World Vision is committed to rebuild homes and schools for victims of Sichuan Earthquake. Photo by World Vision China |
Dr Thomas Chan, National Director of World Vision China, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Education Bureau and the Civil Affairs Bureau in Guangyuan City, pledging USD15 million towards the reconstruction of the quake-affected area.
World Vision is committed to rebuild 30 schools and 15 dormitories, at a cost of RMB 1.5 million (USD 230,700) each in Jiange County, Chaotian District and Yuanba District, all in Guangyuan City. The aid agency will also assist some 1,500 families in the area to rebuild their homes.
The County Magistrate Zhang Shou Yu, from the People’s Government of Yuanba County in Guangyuan City said he was touched by the aid agency’s continued dedication and support for quake-affected people in Sichuan.
The Magistrate said survivors felt supported by the overwhelming generosity and care of the international community through the continued distribution of residential tents, school tents and school supplies.
He also said last weekend’s visit by Taiwanese celebrity Wang Lee Hom (World Vision Taiwan Goodwill Ambassador), brought children living in temporary shelter camps a lot of joy.
Guangyuan City had been severely affected by the quake with 14 out of 39 schools left in ruins. As a result, many children have started their summer holidays early, unable to study without their books and classrooms. Most schools say they will re-open 1 August 2008.
Three out of 10 hospitals in the area are no longer operating. Continued infrastructure support is essential to the reconstruction of the area.
The County Magistrate said World Vision’s donation to the area was very meaningful.
“Every dollar contributed will be used to rebuild the lives of children, farming families and the poor,” he promised.
World Vision Singapore has also seconded Mindy Chee (Singaporean), Communications Manager, to assist World Vision China in its relief efforts. Mindy is currently in Sichuan.
World Vision is a Christian relief, development and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, families and communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. We serve more than 100 million people and work in 98 countries around the globe. Through child sponsorship, 3.4 million children benefit from having clean water, food and agriculture, healthcare, education and microfinance.
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