A Closer Look at Viet Nam and Sri Lanka.

Within both Viet Nam and Sri Lanka, there are millions of people who are desperate to emerge from their past.

Many parents suffer incredible hardship, to provide the new generation with an education and lifestyle they could never have themselves. Despite a surge in overseas development in Viet Nam, the poor level of wages still continues. In some sectors of industry it seems the flood gates are opening, with a huge risk of open exploitation of the local people. The Viet Nam government seeks every opportunity to develop economically - but often neglects the vital areas of need: health and education. Change comes slowly.

Sri Lanka struggles just to survive in a country split apart by violence and unrest. When nature brought the Tsunami It did not select favourites. It did not recognise age, sex, creed, or social standing. It came and went, and left the country, and the rest of the world, reeling in shock and disbelief. But it is real. The legacy of both these tragic events - one past and one ongoing, is hardest on those who are poor, in refugee camps, or trying to earn a basic living.

Both Viet Nam and Sri Lanka share a history of warfare and poverty. History will not change, but we can change the future. Heart Reach Australia is committed to working in these countries to help the people gain a quality of life that seems so far distant for so many.

Our goal is to work with local village leaders, to set priorities and develop programs that can see health facilities, schools and orphanages, and water quality established, and to follow through with development into the long-term future.

This will require ongoing commitments to provide financial support, equipment and expertise; but most of all perseverance and dedication. These last two we have, and look to others for help with the rest.

Many children attend school. Many do not. Others attend only when the family street stalls permit. There are not enough schools, so a roster system often applies.

Medical facilities too often lack necessary facilities. Doctors, with an average wage of US$50 per month in Viet Nam are common. They are dedicated professionals, but struggle to overcome an infant mortality rate that is still far too high and diseases that are often poverty-related.

Operating procedures are hampered by a lack of sterilization, inadequate instruments and equipment, and erratic electricity supply. Throughout the SE Asian region, basic medical equipment, supplies and hygiene standards are mostly well below those of hospitals in Western countries.

The number of diseases and afflictions common in Viet Nam, but rarely seen in Western countries, are staggering. Most are preventable. Medical textbooks often are outdated. With assistance, compassion and a desire to make a difference in these nations - most of the areas mentioned to date, and which are primarily preventable, can be changed.

This is the goal of Heart Reach Australia, and you who support us in Australia and overseas.