Eight south Asian nations and Somalia were severely affected by the 9.0 earthquake and subsequent tsunamis that hit the region on December 26. The world's most powerful earthquake in 40 years struck deep under the Indian Ocean off the west coast of Sumatra early Dec. 26, triggering 20 foot tidal waves in some areas. More than 155,000 people have lost their lives, and millions more have been left without food, shelter and safe drinking water.

On a recent visit to Banda Aceh, Indonesia, U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan described the devastation as the worst he has ever seen. In Sri Lanka, U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell said the even the dramatic television pictures cannot fully convey the utter destruction of the region.

InterAction member agencies, United Nations disaster assessment and country teams, and various donor governments are working together with the governments of the affected countries to respond.

Dozens of InterAction members are accepting contributions for assistance that they or their affiliates are providing to those affected by the earthquake and tsunamis. An updated list of agencies responding, as well as detailed information on their activities, is available at: www.interaction.org/sasia

InterAction has also developed guidelines on the most appropriate ways to help those affected by overseas disasters: InterAction Guide to Giving.

January Tsunami Donations Deductible for 2004: Visit the IRS website for more information.