A Heartfelt Mission: Bringing Relief to Bagan’s Flood Victims
Myanmar, a land woven with tales of ancient kingdoms and rich cultural heritage, now faces the dual challenge of protecting its people and preserving its historical legacy amidst natural disasters while also dealing with conflict amongst many others. The recent floods in Bagan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, have once again highlighted the urgency of humanitarian efforts in this region, and why we are seeking support in the form of requesting a donation of any size. These efforts are crucial not only for the well-being of the local communities but also for safeguarding the invaluable historical sites that stand as testament to Myanmar’s storied past.
A series of heartwarming photos landed in our inbox, capturing the incredible efforts of our local team in Bagan. These images told a story of compassion and resilience, as our dedicated volunteers distributed food and clean drinking water to those affected by the recent floods.
On the first day of our mission, the team successfully delivered food boxes to 160 individuals and provided purified water bottles to 160 families residing in the sandbar areas of the river. Our local team leader shared that they planned to return the next day to distribute the remaining water bottles to an additional 140 families.
Navigating the flooded regions was no easy task! Our volunteers had to use boats to reach the most isolated homes, with some even wading through the water to ensure the elderly received their supplies. The team’s dedication was evident as they worked tirelessly, preparing meals of rice, chicken, and green mango salad until late into the night and resuming their efforts early the next morning.
In areas like Myinkabar Village and Old Bagan, where historical temples and the remnants of ancient kingdoms stand, the team used three-wheeled cycles to deliver aid. Fishermen families living in small huts along the riverbanks were grateful for the much-needed assistance. For those in the middle of the river, boats were the only means of transport, and our volunteers went from house to house, ensuring no one was left behind.
The joy and relief on the villagers’ faces were palpable, especially when they received the 20-liter bottles of drinking water. For many, this meant a reprieve from the anxiety of finding clean water for the next week. The gratitude expressed was overwhelming! One elderly couple, deeply moved by the generosity, wished eternal health and happiness for all the donors who contributed.
Seeing these photos and hearing these stories is truly uplifting for us. The spirit of Metta (loving-kindness) flows abundantly from the beneficiaries, who send their deepest wishes for your happiness and freedom from worries. As they hold onto hope, they extend their gratitude to you, the donors, who have brought light into their lives during such a challenging time.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your generous donation and compassion. May you experience the same joy and peace that you have given to the people of Bagan. Together, we are sowing seeds of hope, nurturing a community that will thrive even in the face of adversity.
