Some communities remained isolated for days. Many families are still sleeping in the open, under plastic sheeting or makeshift tents. The rainy season has begun, making life even more difficult. The ground is muddy and the shelters are wet and unsafe. The drinking water is dirty and there are not enough toilets or clean places to cook. These conditions cause illness, especially for children and the elderly.
People are tired and frightened. Many are still in shock from the earthquake. Children can no longer go to school because many schools have been damaged or destroyed. Teachers have no teaching materials and students have lost their books. Parents do not know how to give their children a better future. Hospitals and clinics are already scarce in these areas, and are now overcrowded or inefficient. People with chronic injuries suffer in silence.
Yet, the people of Myanmar show great courage. Local volunteers, religious groups and aid workers are doing their best to help. They share food, water, clothes and medicine. They build temporary shelters and visit the sick. But there is not enough aid to reach everyone. The needs are too great and many areas are still difficult to reach because of the conflict and road conditions.
What people need now is long-term support. They need houses to live in, clean drinking water and sanitation. Children need to go back to school and teachers need support to return to teaching. Those who have lost their farms or small businesses need help to start again.
‘We ask all our supporters to stand by the most vulnerable people,’ wrote Don Bosco Nyi Nyi, Superior of the Salesian Vice-Province of Myanmar, in a letter. "Even a small gesture of kindness can bring light to a family living in darkness. Together we can bring hope, healing and new life to the people of Mandalay and Sagaing".
Source: Missioni Don Bosco
