According to the World Health Organization, an estimated five million people around the tsunami-struck region do not have access to the basics they need to stay alive, such as clean water, shelter, food, sanitation and health care. With the total cost of damages estimated at more than $13 billion, additional and ongoing worldwide support will be required for the relief and rebuilding efforts.

Currently, the death total is estimated at more than 150,000, with UNICEF reporting that approximately one-third of those fatalities are children. The impact on the families and children in the region is enormous and continues to grow.

“Our hearts go out to the families affected by this tsunami as many of them struggle for survival,” said Susan Dell, co-founder of the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation. “We hope that the collective contributions from around the world will give the people of South Asia the hope and support they need to rebuild their lives in the new year.”

“We in the United States understand firsthand what it means to receive support from across the globe in times of crisis. Now it is our turn to show the people of South Asia how much we care for their survival and well-being,” said Michael Dell. “We encourage people in our country and everywhere to find it in their hearts to give generously to the relief efforts.”

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation encourages those in the worldwide community to support the immediate relief and long-term rebuilding efforts of those affected by the tsunami in South Asia.