Myanmar (Burma) Cyclone - May 2008

Cyclone Nagris struck Myanmar on 2nd May, leaving at least 138,000 people dead. 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.

Vital resources provided

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 organisations in the

country to ensure that life-saving emergency aid went to the people who needed it most. Initially £110, 000 was spent on providing essential food, water, medicines, temporary shelter and blankets to more than 65,000 people.

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.

You can help SCIAF continue its life saving work - Donate Now