Heavy rainfall, power outages and impassable roads are slowing the rescue work. Doctors and other emergency workers were forced to walk to the epicenter, which they eventually reached 24 hours after the quake. Military officials have deployed approximately 50,000 troops to assist local emergency services. Trains carrying relief aid have begun to make their way to the affected areas, carrying more than 50,000 tents, fuel and numerous other relief materials.
 
Episcopal Relief and Development's partner in China, the Amity Foundation, an independent Chinese Christian voluntary organization, is responding to the quake. Amity has deployed staff to the affected region and is coordinating their response with local partners. With Episcopal Relief and Development's support, Amity is distributing rice, bedding and sheltering material to alleviate the suffering of 8,000 families in the provinces of Sichuan, Gansu and Sha'anxi.

"As we continue to learn more about the level of destruction following the earthquake, our partner, the Amity Foundation will continue to meet the emerging needs of the affected population," says Nagulan Nesiah, Program Associate for Asia at Episcopal Relief and Development. "Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this disaster, particularly with the families of the many thousands who are missing," Nesiah continued.

To help people affected by the earthquake in China, please make a donation to Episcopal Relief and Development's "Emergency Relief Fund" online at http://www.er-d.org/ , or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development "Emergency Relief Fund" P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.