(11/23/2009) The 7.6 earthquakes that struck Padang and West Sumatra on Wednesday, September 30, 2009, claimed more than 1,100 lives. The quake devastated the once proud and picturesque provincial capital of Padang, leveling homes, offices, hotels, hospitals and schools.



Now, some 2 months after the natural disaster, only 40% of Padang's school-aged children have managed to return to the classroom, many of those in makeshift structures not wholly suitable for education.

"This is an important sign that life will return to normal for children affected by this tragedy," said UNICEF Country Representative in Indonesia, Angela Kearney, "Many children I have met amidst the shattered buildings of Padang expressed their fears for the future. They are worried about more shocks, about losing their homes, and about never going back to school again," added Kearney. "Today, children can see that schools will be re-opening, and that they will be able to continue their learning. It's a first step towards bringing the comfort and reassurance that these children so desperately need."

More supports and efforts are needed, not only to provide kids with suitable formal education, but also to make them find their childhood back; meeting friends, sharing stories, playing, and having fun. These are tremendously important to help them deal with the trauma.

Bali Kids for Padang Kids Charity Event

You can help get the kids back to school in West Sumatra by attending a sunset cocktail and auction at the Gado-Gado Restaurant on the beach in Seminyak on Thursday, November 26, 2009. Running from 6:00 pm until 10:00 pm, the evening will be a festive affair with music by Padang native Oppie Andaresta, songs by Bali Soda kids, salsa & jive by The Dance Company & Davis, ethnic Sumatran dances by the Bali Padang Community, an art auction, plus door prizes and much more!

Beautiful paintings by the children of Padang will be auctioned off during the course of the evening by guest auctioneer, Jack Daniels of Bali Update and www.balidiscovery.com.

You can give to the kids by enjoying a three-course meal prepared by Chef Quib for only Rp. 400,000(US$40) or purchase meal-less entry tickets for only Rp. 50,000 (US$5. Proceeds for the evening go to rebuilding Padang's Elementary Schools and purchasing book sets for the children.

The event is supported by Gado Gado Resturant and Rotary Seminyak. For tickets and bookings e contact Nikken on++62(0)8124661198 .

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