The Hungarian Reformed Church Aid (HRCA) is preparing a humanitarian aid shipment to Myanmar, the country hardest hit by the earthquake. Besides using its emergency funds, HRCA has also launched a countrywide fundraising campaign in congregations of RCH and seeks cooperation with the service and development department of the Myanmar Council of Churches.
On March 28, a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, with aftershocks also affecting Thailand. The earthquake, which ruptured along the Sagaing Fault, is the largest to hit Myanmar in over a century. At least 150 lives have been lost, and the death toll is expected to rise. Hundreds more have been injured, and communication blackouts, along with damaged roads, are severely hindering relief efforts. In Myanmar, more than 2000 victims have already been reported by local authorities and tens of thousands of people have lost their homes. An additional difficulty is that the country has been in a civil war for several years, which has significantly hampered the rescue process and international assistance. In addition to the collapse of health, food and drinking water supplies, aid workers working at the disaster site have also reported shortages of medicines and medical supplies.
The WHO has declared a state of emergency and said that trauma care, prevention of epidemics and the restoration of basic health services are needed over the next thirty days. Many of Myanmar's hospitals have been damaged by the earthquake, while others are overwhelmed by the number of victims.
Launching the campaign HRCA answered the call of the General Secretary of the World Communion of Reformed Churches. Rev. Dr. Setri Nyomi shared a message of faith and resilience in response to this tragedy: “In times of disaster and despair, we cling to the assurance that God does not abandon His people. Even in the rubble, God is present, bringing hope and new life.”
"The WCRC, in collaboration with global ecumenical partners, calls for urgent relief efforts and continued support for those affected by the crisis. Rev. Dr. Nyomi reaffirmed, “We stand united with the people of Myanmar and Thailand, offering prayers and support as they face this overwhelming challenge. Our thoughts are also with the rescue workers and relief teams who are working tirelessly to bring aid and restore hope.”