In response to the bitter cold winter that is being blamed for hundreds of deaths in Bangladesh, India and Nepal, The Salvation Army is distributing blankets, sweaters and other warm clothing items to assist in the battle. Temperatures are falling below zero as winds sweep down from the Himalayas, and heavy fog hangs over much of the region. This is devastating for an area where millions of people live without power, shelter or warm clothing.

Over 5,000 blankets, sweaters and other warm items are being sent to the Dinajpur District in the Northwest portion of the country. The Salvation Army is working with other Christian organizations to distribute the warm garments. The items are manufactured in The Salvation Army's own factory, Sally Ann. Sally Ann provides the people of Bangladesh with over 350 jobs. This is a vital service in a country with an immense unemployment rate.

In addition, The Salvation Army has partnered with Lamb Christian Hospital to give urgent assistance to 2,000 people located in the poor, rural tribal communities of Santal and Urao.

Lt. Colonel Ethne Flintoff, leader of The Salvation Army's work in Bangladesh, reports that the country is experiencing one of the coldest winters in memory. "Many people are dying," she said. "They are desperately looking for warm garments. We can trust our Christian partners to distribute the garments in their areas of work. We are delighted to work with them at this time of emergency."

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