Story:

CHF International is working in tsunami-stricken Banda Aceh with the AIG Disaster Relief Fund--made up of contributions from the company’s employees--to manage the design and reconstruction of Peunayong Market, Banda Aceh's primary marketplace for the retail trade of fish, meat, and vegetable products.

October 27, 2005 marked the groundbreaking for the 2,000 m² facility that will serve as an employment, health, and trade hub for thousands of community members. People like Mohammed Amin, 72, who lost eight family members during the tsunami and now works outdoors in the heat and rain at the makeshift street market outside the Puenayong construction site. "Life will be much better when I can return to selling indoors," he says.

Faced with poor sanitation, waste disposal, and vendor assignment at the current site, both residents and vendors are looking forward to the new facility that has been designed in close collaboration with local contractors, architects, and community members. "The new market scheme looks much better, since the old one was too small," says Achyar, 34, who lost much of his family and his only source of income when the tsunami hit last year. "Everyone here will be grateful when the fish market is rebuilt," he says.

Abdullah Umar, 38, has worked at the original market since it was built and was in the market when the earthquake-tsunami hit. He works in the makeshift market right now selling his tuna to the hospitals for their meals. "Puenayong has always been like my home. When it is rebuilt, I will really feel like Aceh is truly recovering."

We extend our sincere gratitude to AIG Disaster Relief Fund for responding in the aftermath of the tsunami and supporting the people of Banda Aceh rebuild their lives and livelihoods.