The Meaning of 50 Years

In 2007, Catholic Relief Services marked our 50th year of support and programming in Indonesia. The milestone came just before the mid-September earthquake in Sumatra, where CRS responded with humanitarian relief in the hardest-hit areas. The timely, coordinated effort was a reminder of the strength of relationships built across decades, communities, governments and organizations for the purpose of best serving those in greatest need.

Despite the many disasters that have unfolded here, including the South Asia tsunami three years ago, Indonesia has inherent beauty that stems from its cultural diversity and topography. With offices in Jakarta, West Timor, Yogyakarta and the Aceh province, CRS supports programs that empower people with the means to improve their quality of life. By addressing root causes of chronic poverty, injustice, malnutrition, disaster and conflict, we work with communities as they become stronger, more peaceful, healthier and more resilient.

The photos here are a testament to what can be achieved when we work together. In a spirit of solidarity and commemoration, we bring the faces and stories of CRS Indonesia to you.