Myanmar

In May 2008, Myanmar was hit by the seventh most destructive cyclone in history, Cyclone Nargis, which claimed 130,000 lives and plunged nearly 2.5 million people into a state of emergency. Initially, the ruling military junta obstructed the distribution of humanitarian aid and blocked foreign organisations from entering the country. However, after unprecedented public pressure, the government relented, allowing even smaller organisations such as People in Peril to intervene quickly and effectively in cooperation with local activists. Immediately after the cyclone, we launched a public collection to help the victims, which, thanks to the support of the Slovak public, raised SKK 1 300 468 (EUR 43 167.63). In addition, we added 218,814.26 Sk (7,263.30 EUR) from our Donors’ Club. These funds enabled the distribution of food, medicine, clothing and stationery to almost 2,000 families in the Rangoon and Labutta areas, with our staff working in cooperation with local volunteer groups. In addition, we funded the transportation costs of these volunteers and the repair of eight water pumps. We were also involved in a project coordinated by People in Need (CZ), where the proceeds from the collection were used to purchase, transport and distribute relief materials such as food, blankets and clothing to a total of 68,666 people in 36 villages in the Dedaye and Labutta area.