| Hi jay, It’s amazing how little things can truly make a difference. Whether it’s providing essentials after a fire in Thailand or building a playground in Rwanda, we have improved the lives of people in need. I hope you enjoy reading more about this work and other highlights from the past couple weeks below. Thanks to everyone who sent me feedback after my last update. I’m always interested to hear what you think. Sincerely, -Daniel Daniel Wordsworth, President *********************************************** *Fire at Umpiem Mai Camp in Thailand* A devastating fire took place recently in Umpiem Mai Camp in Thailand, destroying 550 houses and leaving about 3,300 refugees homeless. The fire started by accident from a charcoal stove, and refugees helped prevent the flames from spreading further by pulling the flammable thatch down from the roofs of their homes. After the fire died down, our refugee staff responded immediately, providing mosquito nets and mats to people who lost their homes. They also distributed water containers and other essentials, got the water system running and built latrines. “It is heartwarming to see refugees pitch in quickly to help their neighbors and do what they can – though they do not have much,” said Chuck Schumacher, ARC Thailand’s Field Coordinator. “The refugees will probably not cherish the frightening fire – but they will remember the goodwill they received from everyone who worked together to help.” We provide health services, clean water and sanitation and livelihoods opportunities in the camp, where about 17,000 refugees from Myanmar live. *Basketball Court and Playground in Rwanda* The Rwanda team is partnering with a group of camp residents to build a basketball court. The group is pouring cement and repairing and replacing hoops and backboards. A soccer field may soon follow! Dozens of people in the camp have formed a “Manchester United Fan Club,” and more than 80 volunteer club members have been working to develop a larger sports center in the camp. In Rwanda, we also recently completed the first playground in Kiziba camp. Our team shot this video: http://youtu.be/rH9g5Lw3nUA . *Uganda Community Activists* The team in Gulu,Uganda distributed bags to 170 ARC-trained community activists. They’re such small things, yet the bags serve an important purpose: they will protect the activists’ awareness-raising materials and posters from rain as they trek through remote areas of Uganda. The activists meet with families and groups to help build community in the wake of Uganda’s civil war. The bags themselves raise awareness with messages of peaceful homes, relationships and community. *Giving* From now on, I'll always include easy links so it's easy to find when you need it. Thanks so much. Donate online: http://www.ARCrelief.org/donate Become a monthly donor: http://www.ARCrelief.org/givemonthly Give Us a Call: (800) 875-7060 Send in a gift: American Refugee Committee
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