DURHAM, N.C. — Thousands of splintered and broken fishing boats littered the Indian coastline after a tsunami hit. The damaged boats cost thousands of families their livelihood, but thanks to a new program, those families are getting a new lease of life.

The goal of

Project Life Boat

is to raise enough money in 50 days to buy 50 fishing boats for tsunami victims. Since Thursday, employees at A4 Health Systems have contributed $25,000.

"Having a specific project where you buy a boat that's shared by three families that can go back and start their livelihood again," said John McConnell, of A4 Health Systems.

"They're not expensive. They're not big boats and each can be made for $4,000," attorney Larry Robbins said.

Robbins said despite having different lifestyles, there is plenty to connect the Triangle's corporate community to the small fishing villages of southern Asia.

"It is a different world in many respects, but they're business guys, too. They're out earning a living, setting up a business and it was destroyed, so we want to help them get back on their feet," Robbins said.

It is estimated each boat helps support three families. The group will be collecting money through April. If you would like to contribute, you can contact the Triangle Community Foundation in Durham.