GRAHAM, NC - New Directions International, a global missions and relief organization based in Graham, N.C., and Winston Joseph LLC, a leading information technology consultant to Global Fortune 1000 companies with offices in India and China, have joined forces to raise money for the victims of the Asian tsunami. Winston Joseph and New Directions International are endeavoring to raise $1,000,000 for the purchase of food, water and new fishing boats that will allow victims of the hardest hit areas to once again provide for their families.

At latest count, more than 150,000 families lost property and close to 90 percent are fishermen. Over 30,000 boats were either lost or damaged. Operation "Fisherman's Project" is designed to help the local fishermen replace their lost fishing boats and fishing gear, thereby enabling them to once again provide for their families and community. An estimated $2,500 can buy a boat, motor, fishing nets and other equipment necessary to rebuild their way of life.

"This partnership between New Directions International and Winston Joseph is helping to restore the local economy," said NDI founder and CEO Dr. J.L. Williams. "Fishing is the only trade many of these people know, and right now they have no way to start over - all their fishing equipment has been destroyed. Through rallying the support of generous individuals, businesses and organizations, we will be restoring hope and purpose to these devastated communities and villages."

New Directions International has been active in SE Asia for more than two decades, establishing local partnerships for mission and relief purposes. "We meet people where they are and minister to their physical and spiritual needs," said Robbie Hambright, NDI's Director of Operations. "Our strategic local partnerships in these countries give us the ability to respond quickly with in-country savvy and efficiency."

New Directions International and Winston Joseph Companies hopes to make significant progress in reaching its goal of $1,000,000 by June 1, 2005. Those interested in making a donation, please visit New Directions International's website: www.newdirections.org/donate.php. Under "Gift Category Description," select donation in the "Winston Joseph Fisherman's Project" field. New Directions International can be reached at 888-PRAY-NDI (888-772-9634).

New Directions International

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