On New Year's Eve 2021, ACT CROATIA team drove for 5h in 3 cars, delivering aid to 20+ families in the villages most affected by the recent earthquake. No other aid agencies reached out to these remote villages that don't even exist on Google Maps.
People were desperate, as they found themselves homeless within a few seconds, in the midst of winter, mud, rain and cold, not to mention Covid.
They were standing in front of their ruined homes watching in disbelief. Tremors were still felt on and off. They could not enter the parts of their homes that remained standing because the main carrying walls were cracked and tremors were still felt.
Makeshift tents were their new accommodation. The nights were the hardest because it is winter and they have to be outdoors. Shock, disbelief, fear and sorrow is what our ACT Croatia team members witnessed all around. They did their best to cheer them up and lovingly shared the food, clothing and hygiene items they brought with them.
One man asked if they could carry tiles for him, to cover the big hole on the roof to prevent his furniture being damaged. All houses in those villages must be demolished to the ground and rebuilt. These people need help to start a new life and to feel that they are not alone.
It has never been more important to unite and give them a helping hand.
ACT Croatia team starts a fundraising campaign of 5000 Euros for the most urgent survival kits and remains committed to delivering aid directly to the most needy.
Next visit to the affected area will be in 10 days, followed by the next level strategy on how to support the victims of the earthquake in the most effective way, including temporary housing solutions.
Any support is most welcome!
Devi Mohan - Global President, ACT Foundation.
