A Year of Disasters: Accountability Report 2005

The year that began on December 26, 2004 has been like no other. On that day, as the aftermath of the Indian Ocean Tsunami unfolded to millions of survivors and a horrified world, something seemed to have changed. As shocked as we were at the worst nature had to offer, our hearts were also warmed at the best of human kindness.

Unfortunately, in the months that followed, four additional disasters have left families vulnerable in their wake. Hurricanes Katrina and Stan, a widespread food crisis in Niger and, most recently, an earthquake in Pakistan have affected millions of people and created urgent needs for food, shelter and other critical assistance. Mercy Corps donors stepped up heroically for each of these crises. As it had for the tsunami, rapid giving allowed Mercy Corps to mount a quick, effective response for families in need.

Today, hundreds of experienced, dedicated staff are deployed in emergency operations across three continents, including Mercy Corps' largest-ever domestic response on the United States Gulf coast.

Mercy Corps' Year-End Accountability Report details the agency's emergency response over the past year, focusing on program strategy, accomplishments, financial accountability and our vision for future efforts.