UK’s Generosity Shines in Support of Myanmar Earthquake Victims
In a remarkable show of solidarity, the UK has rallied to support Myanmar after a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake on 28 March claimed over 3,000 lives and left countless others injured and homeless. Over £10 million has been raised through the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) to provide vital relief to the affected regions.
The funds secured will be instrumental in delivering emergency necessities like shelter, medical services, food, counselling, and clean water. The appeal, supported by well-known figures such as Simon Pegg, Dr Sian Williams, Hugh Dennis, and Myleene Klass, inspired many to contribute.
Among the 15 charities comprising the DEC are prominent Christian organizations like Christian Aid, World Vision UK, Tearfund, and CAFOD. Other humanitarian entities like Oxfam GB, British Red Cross, CARE International UK, and Save the Children UK also play a pivotal role in the relief efforts.
These organizations are actively working on the ground, collaborating with local networks and faith communities to reach those in dire need. Janet Symes from CAFOD emphasized the urgent nature of the situation: “We remain increasingly concerned by the rising death toll and growing humanitarian needs in Myanmar. This powerful earthquake has devastated thousands of people and families in areas already affected by conflict. As part of the Catholic church CAFOD is working with religious leaders in Myanmar who have teams on the ground and are responding to those most in need.”
Moreover, the King and Queen have also shown their support by making a personal donation, while the UK government has pledged to match public contributions up to £5 million through the UK Aid Match scheme.
World Vision, with its longstanding presence in Myanmar, is focusing efforts on assisting families and children. Fola Komolafe, Chief Executive of World Vision UK, stated, “They are scared, hungry, and without shelter. But we know this: God is with them. He is their refuge, and He is calling us to be His hands and feet. We are calling on people that want to be part of the response effort, to join us by donating funds that we can turn into the help that is needed.”
A Tearfund local partner in Myanmar described both the destruction and the resilience of the people: “We are exhausted, people are exhausted, hungry and grieving, yet they push forward, helping one another, searching for survival. Trying to render kind words to each other and clinging to hope. The resilience of the human spirit is as visible as the destruction around me. Despite the devastation, we are seeing incredible acts of solidarity among the people. Neighbours are helping each other. Volunteers are stepping in to provide first aid, comfort the grieving, and care for children who have been separated from their families. Even those who have lost everything are offering whatever support they can, something like food or a place to rest. The resilience and kindness of the community in this crisis are truly inspiring, but the need for external support remains urgent.”
Myanmar’s infrastructure has suffered extensive damage, with schools, water systems, buildings, power lines, and roads being destroyed, exacerbating an already existing humanitarian crisis affecting more than a third of the population. Julie Mehigan of Christian Aid highlighted Myanmar’s ongoing struggles: “Myanmar is one of the lowest-income countries in the world. Even before this heartbreaking earthquake, we know conflict and displacement has left countless people in real need. Every prayer and every gift will bring hope to people hit by disaster.”
DEC Chief Executive Saleh Saeed expressed gratitude for the UK’s response: “We are extremely grateful to all the people who have already donated to the DEC Myanmar Earthquake Appeal. Once again, the UK public have shown their immense generosity and desire to help those impacted by disasters. The stories we are now hearing from the survivors who have managed to escape the ruins of flattened buildings are harrowing. Children have lost their families. Thousands have suffered life-changing injuries. Countless more have had their homes and possessions destroyed. Life-saving aid is already being delivered by member charities using funds donated to the DEC. But we can reach more people, families and children with your donations. If you are able – please help.”
The Archbishop of Westminster, Cardinal Vincent Nicholas, and President of the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, acknowledged the swift response and ongoing efforts of CAFOD, the Church in Myanmar, and the DEC: “The scale of suffering is deeply distressing, and I commend the swift response of CAFOD, the Church in Myanmar and the DEC in providing essential aid. We will continue to pray for all those affected—those who have lost loved ones, those in need of healing, and those working tirelessly to bring aid and hope in these challenging times.”
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
