By Tim Shenk
AKRON, Pa. - Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) is assessing humanitarian needs in southern Bangladesh following a cyclone that struck the region on Nov. 15.
Cyclone Sidr devastated communities along Bangladesh's coast, claiming more than 3,000 lives, according to news reports. Two MCC staff members are visiting affected communities from Nov. 19 to 22 to assess humanitarian needs.
The cyclone came a few months after floods devastated much of the country. Bangladesh is regularly hit by cyclones and floods, but Cyclone Sidr was the most destructive storm to strike the country in more than a decade. Winds reached 155 miles per hour as they whipped through the Bay of Bengal.
MCC is accepting financial contributions for its work in Bangladesh. Contributions may made through any MCC office or online at mcc.org/donate. Donations should be marked Bangladesh Emergency Response.
MCC has worked in Bangladesh since the early 1970s, when MCC helped provide relief following a cyclone. In addition to providing disaster relief, MCC supports agricultural development, job creation, peace-building, education and improving water sources in Bangladesh. MCC workers in Bangladesh are reported safe.
Tim Shenk is a writer for Mennonite Central Committee.