Project Give HOPE™ Tsunami Relief

As we and the rest of the world watch in disbelief at what has and is happening in South Asia and East Africa, The Stephanie Starks HOPE Foundation is committed to assisting in the Relief and Recovery Efforts. As Major Busroe wrote in this January 2005 journal, "The world is focused on disasters. In December 2003, thousands died in Iran as a result of an earthquake, during the summer of 2004, hurricanes ravaged the Caribbean and the southeastern United States, and then in December 2004, an earthquake and subsequent tsunami killed over 150,000 in Southeast Asia. Each disaster remains in the news for days, sometimes weeks until something else becomes the lead story. But the work of putting lives and families back together takes years." This is why the Stephanie Starks HOPE Foundation has committed itself in joining the many wonderful organizations that are pitching in to aid these people.

We partnered with SAWSO (Salvation Army World Service Office) who are providing 24hour aid to thousands of people affected by the horrific tsunami in South Asia and East Africa that killed more than 200,000 people and devastated 12 countries. The 9.0 earthquake that triggered the massive waves was the most powerful quake registered in over four decades. Millions of people are displaced from their homes and thousands are still missing.

We chose SAWSO as our partner because they are already stationed in the countries they serve, working with the in-country men. When disaster strikes the country they serve they are able to more effectively aid the people, because they have an already established relationship. In addition they will remain in the area years after the disaster working to aid in the rebuilding and recovery.

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Below is a letter from Kevin Tomson-Hooper, from the SAWSO office.

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6 January 2005

Attention: Shelia Starks

Sheila,

I just wanted to follow-up our telephone conversation of yesterday and express to you my deep appreciation for the time that you took to discuss your interest through your foundation to support the work of SAWSO. Your passion and concern for others is truly exceptional, we look forward to developing and equally beneficial relationship with you and the foundation. Your creativity in developing fund raising opportunities through the creation of benefit song and the run/walk a thon to be held in February are really neat ideas that will have a major impact on improving the quality of life for so many. We want you to know that SAWSO who will maintain a high level of stewardship and accountability in the utilization of funds received through the foundation. It is also very important to us that we create projects that are inclusive of community residents and appropriate partnerships that in the end will have the most positive impact on improving the quality of life those who will be supported through these projects.

As promised I will be forwarding pictures from the disaster areas as well as any video that I am able to obtain. Following that will provide for you more detailed information regarding our reconstruction plans for the impacted areas for the long term, we will provide a detailed overview of SAWSO's role/function in international community development work, material on the WORTH micro credit project, our LIVING WELL water project, our involvement in international human trafficking and our work in the area of HIV/AIDS.

That's if for now, thanks again for sharing your sister's life and her everlasting legacy with me. Wishing you a peaceful day, may God's grace be with you.

Kevin Tomson-Hooper

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