In mid-May, Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), delivered commodities and wash kits to the most vulnerable families in Soamanandrariny, Antananarivo. The response was funded by Latter-day Saint Charities.

These supplies helped approximately 2,800 people in 470 families who are affected by the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and whose income has drastically decreased. The donation was provided to meet the recipients’ urgent food needs and to improve access to hygiene supplies. Each family received a wash kit composed of five 20-liter (5.3-gallon) water containers, one soap bar, and a water purifying solution. In addition, they were given food parcels including 25 kg (55 lb) of rice, 2 liters (0.5 gallons) of cooking oil, 2 kg (4.4 lb) of beans, and 1 kg (2.2 lb) of salt.

Ten volunteers from the local Adventist youth identified recipients based on these vulnerability criteria: Female-headed household, a large family with children aged under 5, and families with elderly or disabled people. Due to their commitment and tireless work, the two-day distribution was carried out smoothly and successfully. We praise God for the work of ADRA in Madagascar.

This article was originally published on the Southern Africa-Indian Ocean’s Adventist Echo news site.