Cyclone Nargis: Our response #11

OM International

Rice distribution

One team member and two volunteers went to a township that had not before been visited, where 50 huts had been built with materials provided by World Vision.

The inhabitants had received clothes and rice initially after Nargis, but nothing in the last month.  As the land was not their own, the people had needed to ask permission from the authorities to live there temporarily.

In one family, 14 people were living in one small hut.  Most were unemployed, but actively looking for jobs. The headman said they would be very grateful to receive rice, as this is their greatest present need. The team distributed four bags of rice, to each of the 50 houses.

Finally the team visited an orphanage that houses about 30 children, and distributed bags of rice for them and the associated church. They welcomed the team warmly and expressed their heartfelt thanks.

Boat distribution

Two team members travelled by boat, returning to previously visited villages with ten tractors for our Rice Seed Project.  Some mechanics went with them and started modifying them as soon as they arrived.  These tractors were donated, together with supplies of diesel, to the designated villagers.

“They joyfully accepted the tractors and diesel which will create a new life for them,” commented one team member.

Three team members and three volunteers travelled to the same area by truck taking engines, water pumps, compressors and machines.  At the port town,  the team purchased materials for another well, hired workers and set out with them for one of the designated villages we are committed to helping. 

On the way, they stopped at a village where they had built a well the previous week, to see how it was functioning.

“When we entered the village, the villagers warmly welcomed us and invited us to visit with them.  We went door to door, encouraging them and having fellowship with them,” said one team member.

It is part of Myanmar culture to bow down to a person to receive a gift from them, especially a large or expensive gift.  They believe that if they do not show enough gratitude they will suffer in hell after they die.  The villagers wanted to show their gratitude in this way.  The team explained their viewpoint. 

The team travelled on and reached its destination, and gave the villagers the materials on the truck, as well as discussing with the elders of the village where to build the well.  All agreed it should be built in the compound of an elementary school, as it is the most convenient place for the whole village.  Once dug, the well will benefit the village of over 200 people.  The elders were very thankful, saying that this well will be of benefit for all the people today, as well as all future generations.

Credit: OM International
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