Earthquake Relief Report from Pakistan; FOURTH REPORT – December 21, 2005

Update -- January earthquake relief trip planned.
 
I would like to give the good news that we have been making plans and the second trip to the victims of the earthquake is now arranged by the URI MCC Pakistan.

This trip will be from 13 to 15 January, 2006. The members of the URI MCC will visit the victims of the devastating earthquake in Muzaffarabad, Ghohati, Schon, Mansehra and Balakot. We will offer relief goods, such food items, blankets, warm clothes, medicine and tents. We will give  books, note books, pens, pencils and school bags to the school children. We will also offer some cash as well. The donations which URI members have sent as a sign of solidarity with these earthquake victims will be used in this trip and we will personally deliver these goods. A report will also be sent  on how the funds will be used.
 
I take this opportunity to thank you on behalf of the URI family in Pakistan, on behalf of the victims and survivors of earthquake and on my own behalf for the first successful Solidarity visit we made from 1st to 3rd November, 2005. It was very moving and eye opening. People of these areas are really faced with the crises of their lives. They need much more help. As you may know, the areas which have been affected by the earthquake are faced with very severe cold weather right now and it is snowing heavily in most of these areas.
 
Let us all share our Holiday Season, Christmas and New Year joy and peace with the suffering people of earthquake in Pakistan and Kashmir. Let us give them a smile and comfort. Let us tell them that we care for them. God bless you all. 

With kindest regards and best wishes for the Christmas and Holiday season, I am,
 
yours sincerely,
 
Fr. James Channan OP
Regional Coordinator URI