Urgent Relief to Flood-hit Kerala

“Natural Disasters strike without warning, often without precedent. We may not be able to prevent them, but we can be prepared to face them.”

ATMA Foundation continues its efforts of rehabilitation by empowering the people in flood-prone areas with the basics of financial literacy and financial planning. A large number of people are still unaware of the benefits of insurance, and many do not make effective use of their bank accounts and savings plans. The existing practice of depending on cash for all transactions, and the absence of insurance or investments have taken a huge toll on people’s financial situation in the aftermath of the flood.

Over the last few months ATMA has been engaging with women, children and senior citizens, imparting to them the basics of digital & financial literacy. Sessions by Financial Counsellors, and interactions with bankers and insurance officers have helped them gain a good understanding of the financial world. Many of them have opened new bank accounts, and started using mobile or internet banking facilities. In the unfortunate event of a disaster striking again, their financial preparedness will definitely be better than the last time.

Other projects in the pipeline include distribution of school kits to children in flood affected areas and installation of water purification units in flood-prone areas.

Disaster can strike anywhere, anytime. Even though we cannot humanly predict them, the least we can do is enhance our preparedness.

One of the greatest impacts of the Kerala Floods of 2018 was the large scale loss to property. The rural population was the worst hit in this regard. The flood compounded their already fragile financial situation. Lack of insurance cover, lack of savings, etc broke the financial backbone of many homes.

To increase the financial preparedness of the rural population to combat disaster, ATMA Foundation has taken up financial literacy campaigns in the aftermath of the flood. The ATMA Digital and Financial Literacy project was launched in August 2019. 10 campaigns have been conducted so far, reaching out to more than 300 people. These sessions educate people on financial planning, various government support schemes, insurance, etc – so that they can financially survive unexpected disasters, and rebuild their lives.

In the coming months, the project will be expanded to reach more people – with special focus on women, children and senior citizens.

ATMA Volunteers continue to engage with the flood-hit people, supporting them in meeting their various small needs, giving them a hand where needed, as they get back to their lives. Our sincere gratitude to every donor on GlobalGiving, for making this great work possible!