The YWCA movement in Solidarity with Pakistan

Estimates vary, but according to Government estimates, Pakistan's floods have so far affected 15.4 million people. At least six million people, and possibly up to eight million, are in urgent need of life-saving assistance. The heavy flow of rain has washed away streets, destroyed dams and submerged whole communities. As heavy rains continue to fall, the relief effort cannot yet keep pace with the increasing scope of the emergency.

The flooding is the worst natural disaster ever to hit Pakistan. Aid agencies are working with government officials to assess the damage and deliver humanitarian assistance, but bad weather and damaged infrastructure are creating challenges for aid organisations. The crisis in Pakistan will not be over when the floodwaters recede as millions of people will remain homeless and will be exposed to hunger and disease.

The World YWCA stands in solidarity with the people of Pakistan and sisters of the YWCA of Pakistan. The World Office in Geneva has received news to say that members of the YWCA of Pakistan are all safe. They are beginning to work locally with members and communities and are partnering with others for the wider relief effort.

The YWCA of Pakistan has a long history: the first YWCA was established in the country in 1891 with the mission to promote the full development of women and girls leadership irrespective of race, culture, and creed. They have continued to work through the years despite a difficult local context.

We will share more news from the YWCA of Pakistan soon. In the meantime, if you would like to donate now for immediate assistance, we encourage you to support our ecumenical partner, ACT Alliance, an organisation of more than 100 churches and other member agencies working in long-term development and humanitarian development:

• http://www.actalliance.org/

You can also support the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent’s relief efforts (IFRC):

• IFRC Emergency Appeal