On Sunday 26 December 2004, a Tsunami struck Southern Asian countries that left almost 140,000 men, women and children dead. In Sri Lanka, along the coastline, over 30,000 people died with many thousands left homeless. The Hikkaduwa Region has a population of 128,000 in 98 villages. It is estimated that 38,844 people in 9332 families have been affected by the Tsunami, through the loss of family members, their homes and possessions, their schools and their jobs. Many visitors and foreign residents were caught up in the disaster in Sri lanka. The local people offered their food, their homes and their help in spite of their own grief and huge losses. All visitors to this wonderful country will have experienced the natural generosity and warmth of the Sri Lankan people. Now they need your help. The Hikkaduwa Area Relief Fund has been set up to provide direct help to those affected with immediate relief aid and long term regeneration projects. Please support the Fund, you can make the difference.