Turning the Tide

"Stirred by images of the devastation left by the Tsunami at Christmas time and again this week, Elliot Grancha decided to do something about it. Elliot, 12, has started a project called Turn the Tide. He will undertake to read 250 books within the year and get sponsored by individuals and businesses to do so. All proceeds will go to relief and rebuilding work in Sri Lanka.

  

After the Tsunami: Devastated building and the Kalutara school

'The people of Asia have been devastated and need help. It upsets me to know that many people have been killed.' he said. 'The money will go to rebuilding people's homes and lives.' Already he has raised $500.

Human face: Remains of this man's house; Boy's spirit not broken

Elliot reckons that no person is insignificant and if they start with a willing heart they can go on to make a big difference. Even by reading a book. 'Books are fun and depending on the title you can get a lot out of them.' "

This article was from the Torch in 2005. Elliot went on to raise $1300 in sponsorship. The proceeds were sent to Pastor Cami De Almeida in Colombo. Pr Cami was requested by the Assemblies of God in Sri Lanka to head up the clean up and relief operations on their behalf. Many beachside victims of the tragedy were assisted. Work is now being completed on a new school at Kalutara and other buildings. A number of fishermen received new boats. Many of these individuals who ahd previously been opposed to Christianity became converts after they saw the unconditional assistance they received from local churches.

 

Relief: Cami and Karen De Almeida distribute food and clothing; Clean up worker with Aussie cap