North Carolina-Based Relief Group Provides Help and Hope to Devastated Cambodia Fire Victims

Samaritan's Purse Offers Quick Response to Provide Aid to Thousands Left Homeless in the Capital City of Phnom Penh

BOONE, N.C., April 17, 2008—Thousands of homeless fire victims are huddling in makeshift camps after a devastating blaze that ripped through an entire district of Cambodia's capital city of Phnom Penh.  International Christian relief organization Samaritan's Purse was among the first to respond after Friday's massive fire and continues to help victims by distributing clean water, food, hygiene kits and cooking supplies. 

"The fire hit one of the most poverty-stricken areas of Phnom Penh," said Jack Campbell, Cambodia country director for Samaritan's Purse. "We are here to provide physical help, support and encouragement as these families begin the difficult journey of rebuilding their already difficult lives."

Samaritan's Purse is coordinating with other organizations on the ground to maximize relief efforts in Phnom Penh.

Samaritan's Purse is an international Christian relief organization that provides immediate, no-red-tape response to the physical and spiritual needs of individuals in crisis situations-especially in locations where few others are working. Through its various projects including
World Medical Mission, Children's Heart Project and Operation Christmas Child, Samaritan's Purse is working in more than 100 countries to provide aid to victims of war, disease, disaster, poverty, famine and persecution.

-30-