April 4, 2006
Tsunami Relief work of Kevin and Susan Gerber
Members Statements [click to view video]

M. Polak: Members of this House will recall that on December 26, 2004, a tsunami devastated a large area in Southeast Asia. The disaster motivated a worldwide response. Today, in the spring of 2006, the damaged areas are still recovering.

             Constituents of mine, Kevin and Susan Garber, were visiting the island of Khao Lak, Thailand, when the tsunami hit. While they and their three children escaped without harm, they were deeply moved by the tragedy around them. The Garbers' response was to put together a fundraiser at the Langley Coast Hotel and Convention Centre. They raised over $30,000.

             That is praiseworthy in and of itself, but Kevin and Susan have gone one step further. This winter Kevin and Susan, along with a volunteer English teacher, returned to Khao Lak to personally kick off the construction of a local school, orphanage and English teacher residence. Next month the Garbers will return once again with plans to see the completion of the building project.

             The Garbers' initiative, along with the generosity of the people of Langley, is only one small part of the recovery for victims of the tsunami. Realizing this, the Garbers intend to continue their work. There are plans underway now to make the fundraiser an annual event. As Kevin Garber says: "We'd like to remind people that this is going to take years to fix."

             Mr. Speaker, I know that as members of this House we remember and think often of the needs of those around the world who have suffered great tragedies. We encourage all of those, like Kevin and Susan, who give of their time and energies to help.