On 12 and 13 September, Open Doors local partners distributed relief aid to 300 families affected by the flash floods in Nepal. The following is a Q and A with Raju*, our local partner who joined the distribution efforts.
1. What is the situation in the flooded areas now? How are the families doing, and where are they staying?
“The situation in the flood-affected areas is extremely difficult. Many families, including children and elderly people, are staying in temporary holding centres and tents. They are living there while grieving the loss of their loved ones. Many people no longer have smiles on their faces, and sadness can be seen everywhere.
People staying in different holding centres and tents receive meals from various relief centres. Many INGOs, NGOs, and government agencies have provided food, shelter, and temporary accommodation for the affected families. However, many people have lost family members, homes, property, and livelihoods, and they continue to reside in these temporary shelters.”
2. How is God speaking to them in this situation?
“According to the people I met and interviewed, the flood came unexpectedly and felt like something falling from the sky. They were heartbroken and devastated. Many searched desperately for their loved ones, only to learn that they were no longer alive. Others lost their homes, property, spouses, or children.
“Many people were in shock and unable to process what was happening. Their days and nights were spent crying and remembering those they had lost. It was painful to witness such suffering. During those first days, many were simply overwhelmed by grief and could not even begin to ask questions or understand why this had happened.
“Preeti*, who lost family, shares: ‘After some days, although it was difficult to see everything around me, prayer became my only source of strength. I lost my husband and my home. It was extremely painful because I have two children. Many nights I could not sleep. It has been the most painful journey of my life.
“’However, through prayer and reading God’s Word, I found the strength to keep going. I have to stay strong for my son and daughter. I need to care for their education and guide them spiritually despite all the losses we have suffered. I was encouraged by the story of Job, who lost everything but remained faithful and was later blessed by God. During all these struggles, his story gave me hope and encouraged me to keep trusting the Lord.’”
3. How was the relief received?
“The relief support was very well received and greatly appreciated. Many organisations had already distributed food items, but our support focused on items that were urgently needed, including blankets, electric rice cookers, clothes, towels, innerwear, and some food supplies.
“The blankets were especially important, as winter is approaching. The electric rice cookers were also highly appreciated because Nepal is currently facing gas shortages, making electric cooking a practical solution for many families.
“One of the survivors, Pravin*, shares: ‘The rice cookers and blankets are among the most useful items we have received. Because of the gas shortage in Nepal, the electric rice cooker helps us prepare meals more easily. Many organisations have already distributed food, but these items met some of our most urgent needs. We are very thankful for the support.’”
4. What are your reflections as an Open Doors partner joining the relief distribution? What have you seen, and how can we pray?
“The situation is heartbreaking. Many people no longer have smiles on their faces. Children have lost their parents, and elderly women have lost family members. Many people seem quiet, lost, and overwhelmed by grief. The pain they carry is visible in their faces and eyes.
“Many families are still living in tents and temporary holding centres, and for some, the future appears uncertain and hopeless. While many INGOs, NGOs, and government agencies are providing relief assistance and food supplies, I believe that this support will gradually decrease in the coming months.
“The flood victims will need long-term support. They need help with their children’s education, opportunities to earn an income, and livelihood projects that can help them become financially stable again. They also need safe and permanent shelter where they can live as families and begin rebuilding their lives.
“I have seen people who are still in shock and struggling to process their losses. Some remain strong in their faith, while others continue to wrestle with the pain and grief they are carrying.”
Please pray:
- Pray God will heal the hearts of those who are grieving and carrying deep emotional pain.
- Pray for families who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods.
- Pray for children who have lost parents and are facing an uncertain future.
- Pray for long-term support and sustainable solutions so that affected families can rebuild their lives and return to a sense of normalcy.
- Pray that God will provide shelter, income opportunities, and hope for those who have lost everything.
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