The Anglican Board of Missions (Australia) has launched an emergency appeal in response to the recent volcanic eruptions in Papua New Guinea.
Ulawun Volcano on New Britain Island in PNG erupted on 26 June 2019, affecting up to 15,000 people. Since then, distribution of relief supplies has been hampered by ash cover on local roads and the closure of one airport.
Ash has devastated the region’s palm oil crop which many people rely on for their livelihoods, as well as falling on food gardens. There is also the danger of damage to the lungs from the ash which can lead to sickness or death.
According to news reports, the government is working with the military to assist with the emergency response. The situation is dire, with many people now in need of food, water and shelter.
The Anglican Church of PNG has reported that an Anglican parish (Bialla Parish) and an Anglican School (Soi Primary) are amongst the areas and institutions affected by the eruption.
ABM is seeking to raise AUD $20,000 for the relief effort. Please consider a gift to help with emergency supplies for the victims of this disaster.
Please pray for all whose lives have been affected and for those involved in the emergency response
