Friday, March 28, 2003

Australian Christian and Muslim aid agencies work together for the people of Iraq

Australian Christian and Muslim aid agencies today launched a Joint Emergency Appeal for Iraq.

The people and the land of Iraq need enormous assistance. Forecasts are staggering: two million internally displaced people within Iraq; 5.4 million people who will need food, water, medical aid and other necessities.

In Jordan, Syria, Turkey and Iran Christian and Muslim agencies have plans in place in the event of refugees needing shelter and essential supplies.

"We celebrate the way that Christian and Muslim aid agencies in Australia have joined hands to work for the people of Iraq. The desire for peace and goodwill is deep-rooted, and is not limited by boundaries, whether religious, cultural, political or whatever," said Caesar D'Mello, National Director of Christian World Service, a Commission of the National Council of Churches in Australia.

The people of Australia are invited to respond generously to this Joint Emergency Appeal to help the people of Iraq recover from the tragic circumstances in their country and in the Middle East region.

Suliman Domingo, Treasurer of Muslim Aid, challenges Australians "to give over a million dollars to help provide support to smaller areas on the outskirts of the major Iraqi cities".

In partnership with Action by Churches Together (International), Caritas Internationalis and the Red Crescent Movement, volunteers inside Iraq have been trained to respond to emergency humanitarian situations as they arise -- major relief centres have been established in Baghdad, Kirkuk, Mosul and Basra.

Centrally located churches and mosques have been identified for food to be distributed to all in need. Aid will be given regardless of creed, nationality or political belief.

Make your tax-deductible gift by telephoning

Muslim Aid Australia - 1800 100 786
Christian World Service - 1800 025 101
AngliCORD - 1800 249 880
Uniting Church Overseas Aid - 1800 998 122
Australian Lutheran World Service - 02 6021 5329
Churches of Christ Overseas Aid - 08 8212 4446
Caritas Australia - 1800 024 413
Anglican Board of Mission - 1300 302 663