On July 19, CNN reported millions had become homeless in eastern India due to torrential rains, flooding and cyclone. More than 40 were said to have been swept away and lost their lives due to powerful water currents. Dozens were missing. Entire villages were wiped out. To make matters worse for low-lying villages and farmlands, ""Orissa authorities were forced to open a dam's floodgates located on the state's largest river, Mahanadi, releasing millions of gallons of water, causing flood levels to heighten," CNN.

OBI's disaster and medical relief department quickly responded by working with and supporting an in-country contact! Led by Vivian Isaac, a team of 3 Indian doctors, 2 nurses, a pharmacist and 10 non-medical volunteers set out with medical supplies, food, and clothing to help disaster victims in one of the worst affected areas. Upon their arrival to the Jagatsingpur district (100 KM from Cuttack), they found out they were the first relief team the people had seen! In the midst of rebuilding their lives, people were living in broken huts and make-shift camps. The little possessions they had, were gone. Many escaped with only the clothes on their backs.

Working day and night, OBI's team treated 650 people for colds, malaria and viral infections. The team also distributed basic disaster relief supplies including rice, dhal (bread), oil, and potatoes to 3,933 disaster victims, as well as clothed many with sarees, lungis, towels, shirts, and shorts.

"You have given us food and clothes and treated the sick. We never received such kind of relief. We are grateful to you. God bless your team," said a recipient named Rohi!

Another grateful disaster victim named Dr. Singh added, "Not only are you taking care of us medically, but you are providing what we lost, food and clothing and we are happy to receive much of your help. This is the first time the relief is being given."

As this brave volunteer team ended their mission in some of the worst hit villages, it reminds us all that disaster can strike at any time or season.

Your gift today could help OBI's disaster relief program be ready to respond to future natural and manmade disasters!

HOW YOU CAN HELP
You can help by making an online donation toward OBI's disaster relief efforts. With your support, we can continue to provide emergency relief and recovery. Please make an on-line donation today.

 

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