On Friday, March 8, the Malawian government declared a State of Disaster for the country’s southern region due to the overwhelming amount of rain. The heavy rains and flooding have greatly impacted our children, staff and the surrounding community. More than 11 MCM families have lost their homes while most others have reported some level of damage or loss of possessions and food. There is also evidence of structural damage to MCM buildings.
For now our team on the ground are focused on an emergency response to the needs of our families. We’re continuing to provide services on a regular schedule. Our aim is to provide the children with a sense of security and the opportunity to receive meals though many are cut off from the center.
Ken Mpemba, MCM’s Executive Director, is in the process of estimating damages. We intend to provide you updates and estimates of the devastation in the coming days. A full assessment will be provided once access is restored to the entire community to include housing needs, food security and access to medical care.
We are deeply saddened by the news and continue to support the three villages we serve. We welcome your encouragement and prayers for the children’s safety, that the crops are not damaged and resources become available to repair and restore the lives of this vulnerable community. We will continue to update you in the coming weeks. In the meantime donations to meet immediate needs are welcomed at www.malawichildrensmission.org/donate (please indicate “Malawi Flood” in your donations).