5,000 Packets Distributed to Residents Who Fled

Contact: 434-426-5310, 
pressrelations@gfa.org

WILLS POINT, Texas, May 25, 2016 /Christian Newswire/ -- Workers supported by Gospel for Asia (GFA) are organizing supplies and relief efforts to help victims of flooding in Sri Lanka, which left dozens dead and thousands homeless.

Photo: Home damaged by storm sits in floodwaters.

Three days of pounding rain arrived ahead of the usual start of the monsoon season, creating flood conditions and dropping nearly 15 inches of rain in one day on the northern village of Kilinochchi. The torrential rainfall was equivalent to a quarter of the area's typical annual rainfall, according to CNN. Heavy rains elsewhere created mudslides, sweeping away hundreds of homes, some with residents in them.

"We ask for prayers to help these precious people find relief from their suffering and experience peace and comfort from the Lord," said K.P. Yohannan, founder and international director of GFA.

Several churches and homes of workers supported by GFA are still flooded.

"We pray that relief efforts will help them rebuild their lives after the storm's damage to their homes and their families," Yohannan said.

After the rain ceased on Sunday, floodwaters began receding, and officials said the death toll stands at 92. Workers supported by Gospel for Asia have distributed nearly 5,000 food packets to flood victims now living in relief camps.

"Now, the main need is to help the victims clean their houses and wells and to distribute [food] for them to restart their lives," said a Gospel for Asia-supported spokesperson in Sri Lanka.

Workers supported by Gospel for Asia are assisting in the cleanup and recovery efforts.

GOSPEL FOR ASIA has – for more than 30 years – provided humanitarian assistance and spiritual hope to millions across Asia, especially among those who have yet to hear the Good News. Last year, this included more than 75,000 sponsored children, free medical services for more than 180,000 people, 6,000 wells drilled, 11,000 water filters installed, Christmas presents for more than 400,000 needy families, and spiritual teaching available in 110 languages in 14 nations through radio ministry.

To schedule an interview with a Gospel for Asia representative, contact pressrelations@gfa.org.