A robust wave of compassion from across the UK has helped raise greater than £10m for the people of Myanmar, devastated by a 7.7 magnitude earthquake that hit on 28 March, claiming over 3,000 and leaving many more injured and displaced.
The funds raised through the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) will go towards providing life-saving aid including emergency shelter, medical care, food, counselling, and clean water.
Donations poured in after the appeal launched with high-profile support from celebrities like Simon Pegg, Dr Sian Williams, Hugh Dennis, and Myleene Klass.
Four of the UK’s most distinguished Christian aid organisations – Christian Aid, World Vision UK, Tearfund and CAFOD – are among the many 15 charities that form the DEC.
Other seasoned humanitarian groups like Oxfam GB, British Red Cross, CARE International UK, and Save the Children UK are also a part of the DEC’s collective response.
The organisations are already delivering critical assistance on the bottom in Myanmar, partnering with local networks and faith communities to achieve those most affected.
CAFOD’s Head of Region for Asia and the Middle East, Janet Symes, highlighted the urgency of the crisis: “We remain increasingly concerned by the rising death toll and growing humanitarian needs in Myanmar.
“This powerful earthquake has devastated 1000’s of individuals and families in areas already affected by conflict. As a part of the Catholic church CAFOD is working with religious leaders in Myanmar who’ve teams on the bottom and are responding to those most in need.”
The King and Queen, who’ve consistently backed the DEC’s appeals, have made a private donation to the appeal, and the UK government is matching public donations pound-for-pound as much as £5 million under the UK Aid Match scheme.
World Vision, which has been working in Myanmar for over 30 years, is concentrated on helping families and kids.
“They are scared, hungry, and without shelter,” said the Chief Executive of World Vision UK, Fola Komolafe. “But we all know this: God is with them. He is their refuge, and He is looking us to be His hands and feet. We are calling on folks that wish to be a part of the response effort, to hitch us by donating funds that we will turn into the assistance that is required.”
A neighborhood partner to Tearfund in Myanmar described scenes of each devastation and courage: “We are exhausted, individuals are exhausted, hungry and grieving, yet they push forward, helping each other, trying to find survival. Trying to render kind words to one another and clinging to hope.
“The resilience of the human spirit is as visible because the destruction around me. Despite the devastation, we’re seeing incredible acts of solidarity among the many people. Neighbours are helping one another. Volunteers are stepping in to supply first aid, comfort the grieving, and care for kids who’ve been separated from their families.
“Even those that have lost every thing are offering whatever support they’ll, something like food or a spot to rest. The resilience and kindness of the community on this crisis are truly inspiring, but the necessity for external support stays urgent.”
Infrastructure across the country has suffered severe damage. Schools, water systems, buildings, power lines, and roads have been destroyed, deepening a humanitarian emergency that already affected over a 3rd of the population.
Christian Aid’s Head of Asia, Middle East and Europe, Julie Mehigan, pointed to Myanmar’s ongoing struggles: “Myanmar is one among the lowest-income countries on the planet. Even before this heartbreaking earthquake, we all know conflict and displacement has left countless people in real need. Every prayer and each gift will bring hope to people hit by disaster.”
DEC’s Chief Executive, Saleh Saeed, praised the UK’s generosity: “We are extremely grateful to all of the individuals who have already donated to the DEC Myanmar Earthquake Appeal. Once again, the UK public have shown their immense generosity and desire to assist those impacted by disasters.
“The stories we at the moment are hearing from the survivors who’ve managed to flee the ruins of flattened buildings are harrowing. Children have lost their families. Thousands have suffered life-changing injuries. Countless more have had their homes and possessions destroyed.
“Life-saving aid is already being delivered by member charities using funds donated to the DEC. But we will reach more people, families and kids together with your donations. If you might be able – please help.”
As the death toll continues to rise and survivors face the long road to recovery, Christian charities and their partners are urging continued support to assist Myanmar heal.The Archbishop of Westminster and President of the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, Cardinal Vincent Nicholas, remarked: “The scale of suffering is deeply distressing, and I commend the swift response of CAFOD, the Church in Myanmar and the DEC in providing essential aid. We will proceed to wish for all those affected—those that have lost family members, those in need of healing, and people working tirelessly to bring aid and hope in these difficult times.”
