Supporting a society in the state of collapse

We are always very happy when we can report back with images and stories of how donations are being used and allocated. It’s important that our generous donors feel connected to the impact they are making. Regardless of the amount donated, every dollar is alleviating suffering in one way or another. We do our best to try and paint a picture of the needs while also responding with how we addressed the need using our donated funds. We have hopes that those out there wondering where some of our funding goes will have a better understanding and feel moved to join in with becoming a reoccurring donor.

The following is but one tiny snapshot of the entire scope of our reach and impact. There are so many regions, communities and organizations in Myanmar that all need support and we are certainly making a difference one donation at a time. However, many of these stories we are not able to tell in full, and some we are not able to tell at all.

Thanks to community members who have stepped up to be leaders for their region, we have been able to get urgent funding to those who desperately need it throughout Myanmar. In this post, we focus on one specific community leader who has dispersed donation funds for medical bills, as many are older civilians with medical conditions. One older person in particular has kidney problems and requires a hospital visit every week.

Some of the funding has also been allocated to the monasteries and nunneries throughout Mandalay, Sagaing, Monywa and Shwebo which have been desperately in need. Monks and nuns, who by their very vocation have renounced the world and are not even allowed to touch money, rely greatly on their community to support their daily basic needs as well as upkeep with their facilities. As the Myanmar economy has nearly collapsed entirely, funds are extremely tight if flowing at all and many of the monasteries and nunneries are feeling the impact.

As it relates to the monasteries and nunneries specifically, many have seen a substantial increase in the number of young, student “novice” monks and nuns who continue to live on site with the elders. They are all mostly ethnic minorities mainly from the hill tribe regions east of Mandalay and along the border areas. They can not go back to their villages for the time being, as there is simply nothing left for them and the danger is very high given the spread of conflict wrought by the military. So many monasteries and nunneries are having a difficult time regulating daily food and basic living needs and are in urgent need of funding.

Please consider donating today in support of urgent needs throughout the communities of Myanmar. Any amount is greatly appreciated and makes a big difference. Monthly reoccurring donations are ideal during these times of dire need.