The devastating flash floods that struck Nepal on 26 August have caused widespread destruction and loss of life across communities in the Himalayas. As the full scale of the disaster becomes clearer, more than 1,100 people have lost their lives, critical infrastructure has been destroyed, and thousands of survivors are facing displacement, loss and the psychological impact of the disaster.

Malteser International, the humanitarian relief agency of the Sovereign Order of Malta, is responding alongside local partners to provide urgent assistance to some of the communities most severely affected.

Providing support where it is needed most

In the severely affected district of Nuwakot, Malteser International is working with local partner organisation KOSHISH to provide vital psychosocial support and is expanding these services to reach more survivors.

At centres for displaced people, those affected by the floods are receiving psychosocial counselling, psychological first aid and trauma-informed support.

“There is a significant need for psychosocial support, referrals, and follow-up care, particularly for families who have lost loved ones, people still awaiting information about missing family members, those who have experienced displacement and trauma, and people with psychosocial disabilities whose existing support systems may have been disrupted,” says Istvan Toth, Head of the Emergency Relief Department at Malteser International.

This support recognises that recovery from a disaster is not only about rebuilding homes and infrastructure. For many survivors, it also means beginning the difficult process of recovering from grief, trauma and uncertainty.

Essential humanitarian assistance

Malteser International and local partner organisation RSDC are also assisting more than 2,000 people in Nuwakot District with essential relief supplies.

Affected families are receiving:

• Tarpaulins to provide emergency shelter
• Blankets and mattresses
• Food packages
• Hygiene supplies
• Water purification materials

The distribution of hygiene items and water purification supplies is particularly important in reducing the health risks posed by contaminated water and inadequate sanitation following the floods.

A longstanding commitment to Nepal

Malteser International has been working with partner organisations in Nepal since 2012.

Following the devastating 2015 earthquake, Malteser International and RSDC supported affected communities through reconstruction efforts and initiatives designed to strengthen their resilience to future disasters.

Together with KOSHISH, Malteser International also works to support people living with mental health conditions and psychosocial disabilities.

This longstanding presence and partnership means that Malteser International and its local partners are able to respond quickly, drawing on established relationships and knowledge of the communities they serve.

How you can help

The scale of the devastation means that the needs of affected communities will continue well beyond the immediate emergency.

Members, friends and supporters of the Order of Malta Australia are invited to support Malteser International’s relief efforts in Nepal.

Your donation can help provide emergency shelter, food, clean water, essential supplies and psychosocial support to families who have lost so much.

Please consider making a donation today to support Malteser International’s emergency response in Nepal.

Every contribution, large or small, can help provide practical assistance, dignity and hope to people affected by this devastating disaster.

IMAGE CREDIT: Prabin Shrestha/KOSHISH