WOMEN AND DISASTER

In many parts of the developing world, there is a growing awareness of the vulnerability of populations to man-made and natural disasters. Without well-targeted assistance, even a small emergency can have devastating and long-term effects on children and their families their health, their livelihoods, and access to clean water and sanitation, food, and housing. DIFAA is committed to preventing and alleviating human suffering by providing relief to people affected by disasters and complex emergencies. In just the past year, DIFAA responded immediately to emergency situations around the globe including the Kediri wildfires; flooding in Bojonegoro and Ngawi; and the earthquake in Jogjakarta.  DIFAA works with communities to help them identify and address their priority problems in ways that are cost-effective and emphasize long-term development. From initial relief efforts to long-term recovery and rehabilitation, DIFAA’s humanitarian assistance programs focus on five relief areas: food aid and nutrition, healthcare, shelter, water and sanitation, and livelihood revitalisation.  While many organizations focus efforts in population-dense areas where road and logistical access are easier, DIFAA looks for the gaps where people are not being reached. DIFAA’s immediate relief efforts meet basic survival needs and provide items such as water packets, food rations, cooking sets, blankets, clothing, and hygiene kits. Sanitation workers are also deployed to relief camps to prevent the outbreak of disease and to maintain latrines, cooking areas, and common areas. To assist in long-term recovery, DIFAA fully engages communities in the design, management, and evaluation of reconstruction interventions, including temporary and permanent shelter, preventive and primary health care, water systems and hygiene education, as well as economic opportunities.