In late December 2004, a massive tsunami devastated a large portion of the coastal area of Sri Lanka.  This disasterous event killed thousands of people, injured many more and left many hundreds of thousands of people homeless.

It is hard to comprehend the magnitude of the pain and suffering inflicted on the many men and women who lost their lives or were injured on that fateful day.  Even for those lucky individuals who survived, many lost countless family members and friends, and very likely lost their homes and all of their possessions.

Lives taken will be sorely missed. Physical injuries will take time to heal.  It will take years to reconstruct the homes and communities that were destroyed.  And, it will take even longer to recover from the psychological effects of the loss of life and destruction.  Needless to say, life will be difficult for the survivors of this catastrophe.

While we can't change the unfortunate events that have already occurred, we can offer help to those that are suffering and assist them in their time of need.  Fortunately, people from all over the world have shown an unprecedented desire to help in whatever way they can.  Both Sri Lankan and foreign government agencies, as well as numerous charitable organizations, have mobilized to provide both short and long term assistance to those in need.  If you are able to, I strongly recommend you consider donating whatever you can to one of the many charitable organizations that is providing emergency relief assistance to the people affected by the disaster.  The needs are great and all help, no matter how big or small, can make a difference.

I have the priveledge of being affiliated with one organization that has established a fund to provide assistance to those in need in Sri Lanka.  This organization is Volunteers of America of Los Angeles and I am coordinating their Sri Lanka Relief Fund.  The fund's goals are to provide both emergency direct aid (such as food, water and medical services) to those in dire need, as well as longer term assistance in areas such as support for children left as orphans by the disaster, sponsorship of children and families, job training and housing. We will work in conjunction with local agencies to make sure that aid is distributed in the most efficient way possible.  

I thank everyone who has supported the relief effort by contributing to this fund.  I promise to take great pain to make sure that every dollar contributed is utilized in the best way possible to provide the most benefit to those in need in Sri Lanka.  

On the following pages, you will see photos of my recent visit to Sri Lanka which will show some of the destruction that occurred in the country, as well relief efforts that have been undertaken.  You can also view current financial information of the fund - including funds raised and how they have been used.

If you are unfamiliar with Sri Lanka and wish to get a feel for its culture and natural beauty, please visit the main section of this web site which is a travel guide to Sri Lanka.  I recommend visiting the Photo Gallery section where you can view photographs of many locations on the island.  I am sure you will agree that Sri Lanka is truly a fascinating and beautiful place and it is tragic what has recently occurred. 

Recovery will take a long time and additional funds are needed to assist in the recovery effort.  If you are interested in contributing funds to the Volunteers of America of Los Angeles Sri Lanka Relief Fund or if you have any questions or comments, please contact me at dlettas@voala.org.  

Thank you very much for your concern and interest in this effort to help those in need in Sri Lanka.

Sincerely,

David Lettas