Bangladesh

Cyclone Sidr, a Category 4 system, hit Bangladesh on November 15th, 2007. The death toll reached over 3,000 and over 7 million people were affected by the fatal storm and tidal surges. JDC and The International Blue Crescent (IBC) responded to the immediate humanitarian and medical needs by distributing 300 family care packages, as well as securing donations of 2,000 sweaters. To meet the long-term needs of affected villagers, JDC is implementing two programs: The first is focused on occupational rehabilitation. Since the main occupation of the people in the targeted village is fishing, this program aims to support fishermen by providing fishing boats and equipment to villagers for independent use. With the assistance of these materials, the fishermen will establish a cooperative. They will also participate in an educational program providing technical training on the safety, maintenance, and efficient energy use of the boats provided. The second program focuses on hygiene. An education-based initiative, this program will include group workshops on basic sanitation practices as derived by local and partnering medical staff. Educational materials will also be produced and distributed, as will kits containing sanitation products.