A Glimpse of Hope
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The mayor also applauded the spirit of the local people, saying they had made history by reaching opening their homes and supporting clost to 19,000 people from Buner. And I certainly agree with him. Even though people here are poor, too, they are helping refugees and sharing the little they do have. Amidst all the sad news about fights and displacement, I could detect a spark of hope.
Today, $400,000 of relief was distributed among the displaced. About 500 families, approximately 3,500 people, were given plastic floor mats, mosquito nets, shawls, hygiene kits and kitchen sets.
During the distribution, I talked to many refugees. I wanted to listen to their voices. I was eager to hear their opinions. I spoke with Lal Babi, who is from Pacha Killey Buner. He said life was good there before the Taliban's foray and the subsequent military operation. "We fear going back due to the fighting of the Taliban and the military," he said.
After the distribution, I remember Nazim Ayub Khan's words. He assured the people of his utmost help and said that the government should not forget the refugees who live with host families. He cited official figures, which state that only 13 percent of the internally displaced persons live in camps. The majority, 87 percent are staying with locals in the host communities. The coping mechanisms of these families are stretched and they are at risk of lacking essential things for survival. They were poor before; now they have more mouths to feed.
I can only hope, that more relief arrives soon, and the people who have suffered so much finally will see hope again.
CARE's Response
On Sunday, May 17, 2009, together with partner organizations, CARE distributed essential items to 500 families (3,500 persons). The items included 1,000 plastic floor mats, 1,000 mosquito nets, 1,500 female and 1,500 male shawls, 500 hygiene kits and 500 kitchen sets.
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