Crisis upon Crisis
…has been the experience of hundreds of thousands of people in western areas of Cameroon. For nearly the past decade, violence between different linguistic groups has left villages destroyed, many men dead, and women and children have fled to more peaceful areas with only the clothes on their backs.
Then last year this same area of the country suffered the worst flooding in living memory –buildings were destroyed, crops washed away, and both long-term residents and displaced people alike were left with nothing.
“Over 10,000 people have received direct benefit from this shipment.” Partners’ report
Above: Workers start unloading furniture that will help to re-equip schools that had been destroyed by the flooding.
One of Crossroads’ long-term partners in the area reached out for emergency assistance and we were pleased to be able to offer a full container load of the most desperately needed items, including clothing and shoes, school furniture and equipment, nursing supplies, luggage and waterproof (hospital) mattresses that allowed people to sleep at least a few inches off the still soggy ground.
Our partners reported that the inclusion of kitchen appliances and dining ware had also allowed them to set up a community kitchen with the twin aims of feeding the homeless and training young people to work in the hospitality industry.
“Donations from Crossroads remain one of the best things that ever happen to us.” NGO director
Above: Women collecting clothes for themselves and their families at a flood relief distribution organized by our partners.
Two young flood victims collect new shoes. Our partner reported, “Shoes really facilitate school attendance and prevent diseases and injuries of the feet.”
A woman stands among the remains of her family’s home and possessions after the devastating floods that hit the South West Region of Cameroon last year.
