UNICEF is rushing relief to the countries hardest hit by massive ocean flooding following Sunday's earthquake which has claimed the lives of tens of thousands of people. Hundreds of thousands of people fought to survive the tsunamis. Now we need to help them survive the aftermath.

With millions of people affected in India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, the Maldives and other smaller countries, UNICEF is working to assess pressing priorities and provide immediate assistance. Sri Lanka and Indonesia are likely to have the greatest need for humanitarian support.

With contaminated water an immediate concern, one of UNICEF's main priorities is to urgently help the survivors of the disaster by ensuring that children and their families have access to clean water, sanitation, medical supplies and shelter.

UNICEF has already delivered emergency supplies of bedsheets, blankets, cooking utensils, mats, bottled water and 40 tonnes of health supplies and educational materials to eight of the 12 affected districts in Sri Lanka. More funds are urgently required to ensure that further aid can be delivered to where it is most needed.

In Sri Lanka, many landmines have been displaced by the surging waters posing an additional threat to relief efforts and to survivors as they return to their homes. UNICEF will be starting an immediate mine awareness programme.

UNICEF is appealing to readers for vital funds that will be used to protect the most vulnerable - children and women. Please help us respond to the needs of the children and their families who have lost loved ones, their homes and their livelihoods.

Cheques or postal orders, payable to UNICEF, will be gratefully received at UNICEF Asia Emergency Appeal, PO Box 254, Prestwich, Manchester, M25 3WT. Thank-you.

ANDREA LOCK,

Regional Fundraising

Manager - North West,

UNICEF UK.