On 26 December 2003, an earthquake measuring 6.5 on the Richter scale hit the ancient city of Bam in the southwest of Iran. About 40 000 inhabitants lost their lives and 85%of the buildings were destroyed. In its wake, families were destroyed and many children orphaned.

CRS was privileged to be given the opportunity by the Iranian government to participate in food distribution to BAFIA camp which is home to 2000 surviving inhabitants.

We participated in 4 months of food distribution, sending 7 teams to Bam. Through our interaction with the community and sharing in their grief, our volunteers were touched and inspired to see such resourcefulness and courage in the midst of such devastation.