Thrivent Pledges $3 Million in Aid to Tsunami Victims

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans has pledged $3 million in aid to the victims of the tsunami disaster in South Asia, $1 million in an outward donation and $2 million to match any contributions by its 2.8 million investors through April 15.

If investors ante up the entire $2 million, Thrivent's efforts will have raised a total of $5 million.

The money will be directed to Lutheran World Relief, which is working on raising between $5 million to $10 million to help the victims and plans on using the money in the near-term to provide water, food, shelter and basic supplies. As the 12 nations struck by the epic disaster begin to rebuild, the funds will be used to repair and reconstruct clinics, schools, community centers, homes and businesses. The charity will also provide psychological counseling to survivors who have lost loved ones.

"Recovery from this devastating natural disaster is a long-term process," noted Kathryn Wolford, president of Lutheran World Relief. "We're humbled, but not surprised, by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans' generosity and stewardship."