By Margery Poitras | Development Coordinator
On March 28, 2025, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, becoming the deadliest seismic event in nearly a century. With thousands of lives lost, over 11,000 people injured, and more than 55,000 homes destroyed, communities faced immense devastation. While aid organizations mobilized quickly, damaged infrastructure and limited access meant that much of the immediate response depended on local volunteers supporting one another.
Although emergency relief is not central to Shanta Village Partners’ long-term model, our community responded with urgency and compassion, raising more than $52,000 as well as another $15,000 grant from the GlobalGiving Fund.
In collaboration with field staff, Khai, Shanta’s Global Program Manager, guided a response rooted in shared contribution, supporting new home construction, rebuilding in partner villages, and assisting staff who lost their homes. This approach ensured that even in crisis, recovery remained community-led.
One year later, recovery continues with strength and purpose. Many villages have adopted Community-Based Disaster Risk-Reduction Management plans, equipping them to better prepare for future challenges. While the impact of March 28 will not be forgotten, the resilience and leadership shown in its aftermath stand as a powerful reminder of what communities can achieve together.
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