GENEVA, May 15, 2008--In response to the devastating May 12 earthquake in central China, Action by Churches Together (ACT) International has launched a US $1.475 million preliminary appeal to assist close to 8,000 affected families.

The magnitude 7.8 quake has resulted in a severe human cost, including at least 19,500 dead and 102,100 injured persons. With immense damage to infrastructure, an estimated 3.5 million homes are destroyed. In some areas, 80 percent of all buildings have collapsed.

Impassable roads have delayed doctors and other emergency workers from reaching the most affected areas, while heavy rainfall and power outages continue to slow the rescue efforts. And while approximately 130,000 military personnel are assisting the local emergency response and the transit of relief materials has begun, the needs continue to be great.

Amity Foundation, a member of ACT International, is responding to the emergency and has deployed staff to the region. While coordinating its response with its local partners, Amity is focusing its assistance in the severely affected provinces of Gansu, Sha'anxi and Sichuan.

Amity plans to provide 16,000 of the most vulnerable people with food support to sustain them through the immediate shortage. In addition, Amity will distribute 8,000 tarpaulins and quilts to help families protect and shelter themselves from the elements.

Following the initial crisis phase, Amity will assist in rebuilding communities, including 600 homes, 10 schools and 5 clinics. Other rehabilitation assistance will target destroyed or severely damaged water and irrigation systems.

Amity works in close coordination with local government authorities. In order to ensure the smooth implementation of the projects, Amity has also set up a coordination team, which includes Amity staff, local partner staff and members of local Christian councils.

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Action by Churches Together (ACT) International is a global alliance of churches and related agencies working to save lives and support communities in emergencies worldwide.

MEDIA CONTACT: Sidney Traynham ACT Communications +41 22 791 6711 (office) +41 79 681 1868 (mobile) sjt@act-intl.org