The Sisters of Charity of Nazareth are expanding their response to communities affected by the catastrophic Aug. 26 flooding in Nepal, moving from immediate emergency assistance toward health care, education, and longer-term recovery.
The disaster caused extensive damage to homes, schools, health facilities, roads, drinking water systems, agricultural land and local livelihoods across several districts. In the days following the flooding, Sisters and their partners began reaching affected communities in Dhading and Nuwakot districts.
Video From Nepal
This video offers a closer look at the communities affected by the disaster and the continuing response of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth.
The video shows some of the conditions families are facing as the response moves from immediate relief into a longer period of recovery.
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Relief Reaches Families
Oliva Kujur, SCN, joined the Nepal Jesuit Social Institute for an initial assessment in Galchi Rural Municipality, a largely agricultural area west of Kathmandu.
The assessment identified urgent needs including safe drinking water, temporary shelter, medical care, sanitation, clothing, and assistance for children returning to school.
“Our hope is that families affected by the floods know they are not alone. We are here to listen, respond to their immediate needs, and walk with them as they recover.”
The Sisters of Charity of Nazareth and the Nepal Jesuit Social Institute later provided relief materials to representatives of Galchi Rural Municipality for distribution to affected families. Supplies included tents, mats, bedsheets, clothing, buckets, water purification materials, baby food, hand sanitizer, and hygiene kits.
Sister Oliva described the extent of the destruction simply: “Nothing is left there.”
Suchita Kullu, SCN, also participated in the assessment and spoke of the human solidarity she witnessed among people facing tremendous loss.
Reaching Families in Nuwakot
Sister Oliva and Associate Carolyn Satyal also traveled to Ward 9 of Bidur Municipality in Nuwakot District.
Despite damaged and dangerous roads, they reached a holding center where families displaced by the flooding were staying. Mattresses, pillows and bedsheets were provided to 150 families who had lost homes and belongings.
The Sisters worked with local government officials and community leaders to identify needs and help ensure assistance reached affected families.
A New Phase of Recovery
The response is now expanding in Ward 5 of Bidur Municipality, where the Nepal Nazareth Society plans to work with 175 flood-affected families.
The next phase will focus particularly on families facing increased vulnerability, including children, women, pregnant women, older adults and people with existing health needs.
Health services are planned to include basic medical examinations, blood pressure and blood sugar checks, medicines, nutritional assistance and health education. A second health camp will provide follow-up care and treatment.
The program also calls for two shared toilets for members of the migrant community, responding to sanitation concerns that have increased since the flooding.
Contaminated water, disrupted sanitation systems, and crowded living conditions can place displaced families at increased risk of illness, making basic health services and hygiene education an important part of the recovery effort.
Helping Children Return to School
Education will also be a major focus as children return to school and daily routines.
Children whose education was interrupted by the disaster will receive educational materials, school uniforms and stationery supplies.
“We hope our support helps children return to school and gives families the confidence to begin rebuilding their lives and livelihoods.”
Activities will include a sports day, drawing competition and quiz competition. These gatherings are intended to give children a safe and welcoming place to spend time together, express themselves and regain confidence after the disruption and loss caused by the flood.
The Sisters also plan to include child-friendly activities and emotional support as children adjust to the changes around them.
Walking With Families Through Recovery
Many families have lost homes, belongings, farmland or sources of income. Recovery will require continued cooperation among local communities, government agencies and organizations serving in the affected areas.
The Sisters plan to work closely with local leaders and residents as needs continue to develop.
Special attention will be given to women and families who have experienced significant losses. By listening to residents and involving them in recovery activities, the Sisters hope to support their participation and ability to rebuild their lives.
Emergency assistance will also continue. Blankets are planned for 175 families as communities prepare for the months ahead.
The Sisters of Charity of Nazareth have served in Nepal since 1979. Their relationships with communities throughout the country allow them to listen to local residents, work with community leaders and respond as needs emerge.
The response following the August flooding continues that presence as families seek health care, children return to school and communities begin rebuilding what was lost.