Disaster Risk Management

The Asia and Pacific region is considered as most disaster-prone region in the world. Over the past decades, the region has witnessed several of the most devastating disasters recorded in history. With these events, the people, community and environment absorb the impact of losing lives, livelihood and property. As more people and communities are becoming vulnerable to disasters, the challenges and opportunities to coordinate and mobilize risk management remain relevant to achieve greater impact on the efforts of rebuilding lives and communities.

 

As a community-based, Christian and ecumenical movement, it is recognized that each YMCA is called to build a human community of justice with love, peace and reconciliation for the fullness of life for all creation. The difficulties, struggles and crises in communities affected by disasters and human crises present an opportunity for the movement to actualize its mission of holistic development that strives for spiritual, intellectual and physical well-being of individuals and wholeness of communities and of re-building self-determination and re-establishing self-reliance.

 

The humanitarian work/engagement by YMCA in a sense affirms the movement’s mandate to commit to work in solidarity with the poor, dispossessed, uprooted people, oppressed racial and ethnic minorities, the aged, the youth, the women and peoples with special needs. Moreover this nature of work provides an opportunity for the movement to explore our social relevance particularly in addressing poverty stricken communities, safety of women and children and their specific needs, youth empowerment, social economy and care for environment. Finally, this engagement is a chance to strengthen our commitment to become institutionally viable by giving importance to good governance structures with in-built accountability systems that are transparent to all stakeholders involved.

 

The region shall remain firm in its goal of delivering efficient, effective and appropriate disaster responses that adheres to the humanitarian principles of saving lives, alleviating suffering and maintaining human dignity.

Appeal to support the landslide victims in Wayanad district of Kerala, in southern India.

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Dear Friends and Colleagues:

We are writing to inform you of the devastating landslide in the Chooralmala and Mundakkal areas in the Wayanad district of Kerala, in southern India, on July 30, 2024, which has resulted in over 300 deaths, 191 missing persons, and widespread destruction. The affected area is not far from the Vythiri Tribal Development Centre of Indian YMCA. All leaders and related staff of the YMCA are deeply involved in the rescue and rehabilitation efforts.

In the wake of this catastrophe, the Indian YMCA has committed to expressing solidarity with the victims of this disaster. The Indian YMCA has decided to construct minimum 25 Houses for the affected families, ensure the education of children who have lost their parents, and develop community centres in the affected areas. However, the needs of the affected people far more than their expectations. With additional funding, they can expand their Rehabilitation Project to make a more significant impact. The Indian YMCA is appealing to the global YMCA community to execute these projects efficiently and bring hope to those who have lost everything.

We are, therefore, appealing again for your generosity and prayers for our suffering brothers and sisters. Please reach out to them through your generous financial support. Your contributions, no matter how small, will make a significant difference in the lives of the victims. Let us come together to show the strength and unity of the YMCA in times of need and offer hope to those affected by this tragedy.

Donations can be made to directly to NCY-India with CC to APAY informing the amount of contributions.

Attached is the latest report on the Wayanad landslide by Eldo George, NGS of YMCA India. You may contact him directly This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it if you need more information or have any queries.

Thank you in advance for your kind and prompt support.


Very truly yours,

Nam Boo Won

General Secretary



   

Life-Saving Assistance and Sustainable Development Regional Consultation Workshop by YMCA Myanmar

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Regional Consultation Workshop on Life-Saving Assistance and Sustainable Development By YMCA Myanmar

In the wake of ongoing humanitarian crises and environmental challenges, the National Council of YMCAs of Myanmar stands committed to addressing the pressing needs of vulnerable populations across the region. We highlight the remarkable efforts of organizations and individuals working tirelessly to provide life-saving assistance and promote sustainable development in the face of adversity.

Collaboration with the Impulse Model Prevention by Impulse NGO Network in India

One such initiative making significant strides is the Impulse Model Prevention, which targets populations on the move and aims to provide life-saving assistance to those seeking safety. This innovative approach is particularly relevant in the context of cross-border unsafe migration from Myanmar, affecting regions such as Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland. Leveraging the proven Impulse Model Innovation, this project not only addresses immediate humanitarian needs but also seeks to mitigate the long-term impacts of climate change, deforestation, and food insecurity by promoting indigenous foods and strengthening seed banks.

Project Evolution in Myanmar:

The project in Myanmar, initiated in 2022 with pre-discussions starting in mid-2021, took on added significance amidst the tumultuous backdrop of political changes in the country and the global COVID-19 pandemic. Ms. Hasina Kharbhih's pivotal visit to Myanmar YMCA provided crucial insights for extending assistance to vulnerable populations amidst multifaceted crises.

The project's multifaceted approach includes beneficiary expansion to increase coverage for displaced persons, impacting 1200 hectares of land, and initiatives on agroforestry and sustainable livelihoods in Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Myanmar. By providing essential resources and raising awareness of biodiversity and sustainable economic activities, the project aims to enhance food security and resilience among displaced populations.

Regional Consultation Workshop:

Against this backdrop, the Regional Consultation Workshop on Life Saving Assistance was convened in Aizawl, Mizoram, India, from 6-8 February 2024. Hosted by the Impulse NGO Network in collaboration with Country Partner Myanmar YMCA and State Partner Cod Nerc in Mizoram, the workshop brought together 20 young adults and 20 adult leaders to review the impact of humanitarian aid and sustainable life-saving assistance in Myanmar and the northeastern states of India.

Program Highlights:

The workshop featured interactive sessions, input from professional speakers, team-building exercises, and discussions aimed at finding resolutions to the challenges faced by displaced populations. Participants actively engaged in sharing personal experiences and insights, contributing to the collective effort towards effective resolution and community development.

As we reflect on the outcomes of this workshop and the ongoing efforts of organizations like the Impulse NGO Network, Myanmar YMCA, and Cod Nerc, we are reminded of the resilience and determination of communities in the face of adversity. Together, we reaffirm our commitment to building a more just, equitable, and sustainable future for all.

Aligning with World YMCA Vision 2030: Myanmar YMCA's Response to the Humanitarian Crisis

In the face of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, the Myanmar YMCA has demonstrated exemplary commitment to addressing the urgent needs of vulnerable populations while also aligning with the core pillars of the World YMCA Vision 2030. As we navigate through these challenging times, it is crucial to recognize and commend the efforts of organizations like the Myanmar YMCA, whose work embodies the principles of sustainability, social justice, and community well-being.

 

By Alex Kaung Myat Htoo

Country Team Lead | Humanitarian Programme Manager

Impulse NGO Network Humanitarian Relief Support Programme

National Council of YMCAs of Myanmar

   

Pakistan YMCA Relief Distribution

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Last Updated (Monday, 31 October 2022 11:47)

The Lahore YMCA distributed relief packets containing 10 kg flour, 2 kg rice, 2 kg sugar, 2 kg lentils, 2 kg ghee (cooking oil in some cases), one packet tea, 6 bathing soaps, one packet powdered pepper and one packet washing powder to around 180 families of the Nowshera District at two points namely Pir Sabaq village and Christ Church. The families who were enlisted during the assessment stage included Christians, Muslims and Hindus. A thanksgiving service was held at the church in which Rev Shajeel Khan in his sermon spoke of the difficulties of people and how all the different religious communities came together at church to support and help each other in the difficult time. He explained how through joint efforts they were able to keep the community kitchen running throughout the crisis.



↑ Beneficiary receives relief packs from Lahore YMCA flood relief distribution↑ Packaging of relief items from distribution

The relief packets that were prepared and packed by the YMCA staff were distributed to enlisted beneficiaries. The task was completed in coordination with Christ Church Nowshera (under Peshawar Diocese, Church of Pakistan) and Youth Development Association Development. At the time of distribution, the affected people are still in need of hygiene kits including mosquito nets.

The flood came in the last week of August and first week of September. Although the water has receded, the destruction it caused was visible in the areas near River Kabul. The flood has destroyed the people’s livelihood, cattle and farm animals. Most women complained on losing their sewing machines on which they used for livelihood. As such, the YMCA plans to provide training for making high end quality clothes that they could sell to markets and train as beautician so that they could set up their own saloons for business.


By: Mr. Emanuel Sarfraz, General Secretary, YMCA Lahore 


   

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