Emergency situation: 40,000 individuals displaced in North

Jaffna: The current situation

Fighting has continued throughout August between LTTE and Armed Forces in and around the Jaffna Peninsula.  Statistics indicate that almost 40,000 people have fled their homes and villages and are currently seeking shelter with family members; in disused public buildings; and in temporary camps.

Sewalanka Foundation staff in Jaffna and Kilinochchi have been working in the camps to ensure the basic needs of IDPs are met.

Sewalanka is working alongside a number of local and international aid agencies including ICRC, UNICEF, UNHCR and UNOPS to provide support and assistance to affected communities.

Emergency relief provided

Figures at 28 August 2006 suggest that approximately 40,000 families have been displaced in Jaffna District within the following GS divisions:

With a number of curfews in place across the district, the distribution of much needed food and non-food items has been limited. 

Sewalanka Foundation is currently planning to transport food items for approximately 5443 displaced individuals through funding provided by German Agro Action and ECHO. 

Packages currently being distributed include rice, flour, dhal, tins of salmon, milk powder, soya meat, sugar, soap and tea.

A major concern for those displaced is the lack of fresh produce for families. 

A communications office has been established in Vavuniya to provide a link between staff in Jaffna and those in Kilinochchi.

How you can help

Sewalanka Foundation's work is undertaken with funding derived from donations. You can help us to ensure that the basic human needs of IDPs are met by donating to the Sewalanka Appeal Fund.