Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors

On May 12 the Sichuan Province of China experienced a devastating earthquake that has killed more than 40,000 people with the number soon expected to reach 50,000. Aftershocks, blocked roads and downed power and phone lines worsen the situation and complicate efforts to help the 4.8 million people left homeless and 250,000 injured by the disaster.

In response to the growing needs of the earthquake victims, The Bridge Fund (TBF), a project of Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors (RPA) with more than a decade of experience in the region, is coordinating a donor appeal in conjunction with China Charity Federation, Sichuan International Friendship Association and the Sichuan Red Cross.

The Bridge Fund Sichuan Earthquake Compassion Fund will address both the urgent survival needs of victims as well the long-term restoration process. To ensure your support has the deepest impact possible, RPA is waiving all administrative and financial fees thereby maximizing the benefit directed to this effort by your contribution.

In its initial phase, The Sichuan Earthquake Compassion Fund will assist approximately 100,000 of the most deeply affected individuals over a 12-month period and support the International Red Cross in raising the targeted $19.3 million for relief efforts. TBF will provide individuals and families with food, drinking water, tents, warm clothing, cooking supplies and medical services.

The second phase of The Sichuan Earthquake Compassion Fund will target community rebuilding, especially in remote areas of Aba Prefecture, to assist Chinese and Tibetans who were injured and who lost their jobs and their homes.

For more than 12 years, TBF has worked in Chengdu, Aba Prefecture and Ganzi Prefecture of Sichuan Province to support healthcare, education, community development, cultural heritage preservation and environmental conservation in Tibetan communities. About eight years ago, The Bridge Fund started work on the ground with the Sichuan Red Cross to train doctors, develop clinic projects and conduct healthcare need assessments.

TBF is committed to helping the Tibetan communities that have long been the core of its program. Staff deeply rooted in the region will continue to conduct assessments of needs, including medical help and reconstruction, extending follow-up to current efforts.