Cyclone Idai Relief Update

When Cyclone Idai hit Malawi and neighbouring countries in March this year, experience had taught us that the real problems would manifest themselves in the months, rather than days that followed. These events have a “long tail”.

The Lord’s people gave generously to meet the need, but apart from some short-term emergency relief, we did not rush to respond, waiting to gather information about those who would need long-term assistance.

It is very difficult to determine who to help when almost everyone struggles most of the time. A cyclone like this just makes a bad situation a bit worse for those affected by it.

SALT’s Trustees want to be careful to further the overall objects of the Trust, and not to distract from them as we respond to this crisis. Accordingly, we have tried to target relief mainly (though not exclusively) on individuals we know to be actively engaged in the spread of the Gospel using SALT literature.

Some have lost their crops directly or indirectly as a result of the cyclone. Some their homes. Some both. We have shortlisted about 35 such families for assistance using the funds available to us. Almost all need food relief between now and the next anticipated harvest – around April 2020. Some need help to repair damaged homes, and quite a few will receive assistance to replace a home that was completely or substantially destroyed by the severe weather.

We consider it a privilege to be able to help these dear people, and thank you for your part in this effort.

Please remember our local volunteers who shoulder a great part of the burden of responsibility for this relief effort. They have needs themselves, and need prayer that they will not only have wisdom and strength, but that their integrity will be upheld as they help their fellow countrymen.

More news to follow in due course.