On December 17, 2024, a 7.3 magnitude earthquake destroyed multiple buildings in Port Vila, Vanuatu. The earthquake claimed 12 lives, with more than 200 people injured. The Port Vila CBD was seriously affected and is currently in lockdown, with the demolition of buildings now under way. Businesses and schools are facing serious logistical challenges. Thousands of residents in and around Port Vila have had to relocate, with some communities possibly facing permanent relocation to new, safer sites.
The Presbyterian Church of Vanuatu (PCV) owns several buildings in Port Vila. While none of these collapsed, due to the severity of the earthquake there are concerns about the safety of a number of these buildings. As a sign of our commitment to our partnership with the PCV, Global Mission has offered to send two structural engineers to Port Vila to undertake assessments on these buildings to help the PCV determine the next steps. Following this, we anticipate significant costs will be involved in building repairs that are likely to take some time.
So as a sign of solidarity with the PCV, Global Mission is launching an earthquake appeal to help meet costs associated with supporting individuals and communities affected by the earthquake, and for maintenance and repairs on damaged buildings. Funds can be banked into the Global Mission account, 02 0500 0086963 10 with the reference PCV Earthquake Appeal.
Please send an email to Katrina Graham, katrina@presbyterian.org.nz confirming the donation so a receipt can be emailed