The 7.6-magnitude earthquake flattened homes and hospitals, leaving thousands in need of clean water, shelter and medical care in the cities of Padang and Pariaman on Sumatra island, close to the epicentre of the earthquake.
Christian Aid partner, the Yakkum Emergency Unit, has already sent in medical and logistics experts, eight of whom are in the Pariaman area. The team is providing medical services for around 1,500 people and distributing hygiene and baby kits, blankets and tarpaulins.
It is also assessing levels of trauma among the children and setting up a water purification system.
The Mentawai Protestant Church and the West Sumatra National Council of Churches – both trained in disaster management by Christian Aid partner YTB – are assessing the needs of the survivors and distributing aid.
They told YTB that food and water were very scarce.
“They really, really need food for the people – and medicines,” said YTB deputy director Victor Rembeth.
YTB has sent food, milk for children and pregnant women, medical supplies, an emergency electricity generator and satellite communications equipment into the disaster areas.
Church World Service is providing temporary shelter, plastic mats, blankets and baby kits to the Pariaman area.
The Vatican said in a messate to its ambassador in Jakarta on Friday that Pope Benedict XVI was "deeply saddened" by the earthquake and ""prays for the victims and their grieving families, invoking eternal rest upon the deceased and divine strength and consolation on all who are suffering".
"His Holiness likewise encourages the rescue workers, and all involved in providing emergency assistance to the victims of this disaster, to persevere in their efforts to bring relief, comfort and support," the Vatican said.
