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In the aftermath of this disaster, the American Refugee Committee has been working to provide  much-needed medical supplies, clean water and trauma counselling to the people of southern Thailand. In the midst of all the chaos, ARC's relief team leader, Gary Dahl, identified a critical need that was being overlooked: providing for the livelihood of survivors who had lost their fishing boats and were unable to support themselves. Gary's idea has inspired a larger campaign called The Fishing Boat Project that is growing in momentum and has been joined by among others the Minneapolis based Operation Noah's Ark.
Like many people around the world we were searching for a way to help and considering our close connection and proximity to the ancient fishing village of The Claddagh, The Fishing Boat Project struck a chord with us.
The target is to raise $160,000 in order to replace all 320 fishing boats, which have either been lost or destroyed, in 13 coastal villages in Thailand. As more information about losses in other villages (and indeed other countries) becomes available, this appeal will be expanded. Any amount over the target will be used to supply motors and fishing equipment. To date $200,000 has been raised and we will update the figure raised over the coming weeks and months.
Further information is available at www.archq.org and in this easily downloadable PDF file.
We urge others to help with this worthy cause in order to help rebuild these shattered communities, but PLEASE DO NOT SEND US ANY MONEY, instead visit the American Refugee Committee website 
or send your check to:
The American Refugee Committee
430 Oak Grove Street, Suite 204
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55403
Tel. 612-872-7060
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