Many families have lost homes, livelihoods and loved ones. Others have already been displaced from their communities and are beginning to seek refuge in Kathmandu and other parts of Nepal as they face the difficult task of starting again.
United Nations agencies report that at least 65,000 people have been affected by the disaster, including more than 22,100 children. Hundreds of people have reportedly died, while thousands remain missing.
With roads destroyed and remote communities cut off, the Nepalese Army is leading complex rescue and relief operations, coordinating efforts to reach communities that can no longer be accessed by road.
As the situation continues to evolve, local Salesians of Don Bosco have been working closely with authorities and affected communities to understand the emerging needs.
On 30 August, the Nepal Don Bosco Society emergency response team travelled towards the affected Rasuwa to begin assessing. However, renewed flooding and damaged transport routes prevented the team from reaching some of the hardest-hit areas, highlighting the ongoing challenges facing relief and recovery efforts.
The greatest challenge now is ensuring that support reaches isolated communities and understanding the longer-term needs of those whose lives have been turned upside down by the disaster.
Fr Stephen, who led the Don Bosco field mission, said the focus is beginning to shift beyond the immediate emergency:
“Considering the current situation, I feel that our focus should gradually shift towards early recovery and longer-term rehabilitation. We are planning our response along these lines, particularly considering the many affected people who have been displaced and have moved to Kathmandu for their survival and livelihood. For families who have lost everything, the challenge is no longer simply surviving the disaster but finding a way to move forward in its aftermath.”
For more than three decades, Salesians have walked alongside vulnerable communities throughout Nepal through education, training and community development initiatives. Today, as families face an uncertain future and begin the long journey of recovery, that commitment remains unchanged.
Support Nepal’s Long Road To Recovery
Thousands of families now face the enormous challenge of rebuilding their lives, after losing homes, livelihoods and loved ones.
While emergency relief efforts continue, recovery will take months and, for many communities, years.
Your donation will help ensure Salesians in Nepal can respond to emerging needs and stand alongside vulnerable families as they take the first steps towards recovery.