Two years after the April 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes, 1,500 families still remain in temporary housing in Mashiki, Kumamoto. Living in temporary housing after losing their homes, residents are often prone to isolation and withdrawal, especially the elderly. Peace Winds has been providing "community building" and "engagement activities" for the families. Peace Winds is also supporting pets and pet owners by assisting shelters and arranging owner visits.
Temporary housing living can be difficult. Even with supplies and modern conveniences, residents live in small accommodations with their families and close to neighbors. Two years in these conditions has taken a toll on residents. Some wonder if they will ever leave. This coupled with the difficult time of the anniversary makes residents prone to depression. The local government has no set date for the residents to return home, meaning supplies and support must continue for the communities.
Peace Winds is combating isolation and building strong communities by hosting events and activities in temporary housing complexes. Pet owners are grateful for Peace Winds' help funding pet shelters and arranging visits. Peace Winds established and trained Township leaders to address concerns of temporary housing residents. Peace Winds will provide additional resources and support, including counseling and workshops, to help residents manage living long-term in temporary housing.
With support and care, residents will not feel isolated or withdraw. Residents will be more able to address their needs and cope with the emotional impacts of living long-term in temporary housing. Peace Winds and its local partners will continue assisting families through Township leaders, mental health counseling, social activities, workshops, and providing pet care and visits. These provide hope and a sense of community to residents as they continue living in the complexes.
This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).
