Myanmar Cyclone Appeal Raises £167,273

Since Cyclone Nagris struck Myanmar on 2nd May, leaving at least 138,000 dead and many more homeless, SCIAF’s generous supporters have raised a staggering £167,273 to help devastated communities get back on their feet.

In the immediate aftermath of the disaster, SCIAF worked with local partners in the country to ensure that life-saving emergency aid went to the people who needed it most. Initially £110, 000 was spent on essential food, water, medicines, temporary shelter and blankets to more than 65,000 people.

The devastating storm swept across the country leaving many thousands homeless and without their possessions or their livelihoods. Landless labourers and fishermen were among those worst affected. Freshwater ponds were contaminated with salty seawater, leaving people with little to drink, and many schools were destroyed.

SCIAF is continuing to work with its partners and the Caritas Internationalis network of 163 Catholic aid agencies to help local communities reconstruct their homes and livelihoods.

Those living in cramped, temporary shelters are particularly vulnerable to the spread of diseases such as cholera and dysentery. During the three-month monsoon period, SCIAF’s partners were working in two of the worst hit districts to provide 60,000 of the most vulnerable people with food, shelter, safe drinking water, medical care, sanitation and psychological support.

One of SCIAF’s partners said: “Myanmar has survived many tragedies. Cyclone Nargis was one of the most painful wounds inflicted on the integrity of our people. Thousands still remain without proper homes. Livelihoods are to be rebuilt.

“As the people are slowly picking up the pieces of their lives and starting once again, we wish to accompany them in their march towards their dignity.

“Many donors have contributed towards wiping out the anguish of our people. To all of you we offer our prayerful gratitude.”

Thanks to the amazing generosity of SCIAF’s supporters, many people in Myanmar are beginning to pick up the pieces of their shattered lives. It will take a long time for the country to fully recover from the effects of Cyclone Nagris and SCIAF welcomes everyone’s continued support.

Members of the public wishing to make a donation to the SCIAF Myanmar (Burma) Appeal can donate online or call SCIAF direct on tel: 0141 354 5555.

Media enquiries: Val Morgan Tel: 0141 354 5555 / Mobile: 07914 408 589 / email: vmorgan@sciaf.org.uk