Caritas is urging Australians to support communities devastated by catastrophic flooding in Nepal as local partner Caritas Nepal expands its emergency response to reach families who have lost homes, livelihoods and loved ones.
The scale of the disaster continues to emerge, with hundreds of lives lost, thousands of people still missing or unaccounted for, and widespread damage to homes, schools, health facilities, roads and bridges across northern Nepal. Rescue operations remain underway as authorities work to access isolated communities and restore critical infrastructure.
On the ground, Caritas Nepal has established community kitchens initially intended to provide meals for 300 affected families. Alongside partner agency Catholic Relief Services, this response has now expanded to 50 community kitchens throughout remote areas of Nepal where many have lost not only their homes, but also their food supplies, cooking equipment and ability to prepare meals.
Further emergency assistance is set to reach 1,000 families, with ready-to-eat meals, shelter materials, household essentials, hygiene kits and solar lighting for displaced households.
Caritas Australia Humanitarian Manager Sally Thomas said the needs are growing as more information emerges from affected communities.
"Many families have lost not only their homes, but the everyday items that help them survive and recover, including food, cooking utensils, bedding and access to healthcare."
"Something as simple as a community kitchen can make a huge difference in the early days after a disaster. For families who have lost everything, knowing there is a meal available provides both practical support and a sense of stability during an incredibly difficult time."
Caritas Nepal remains particularly concerned about communities that are still difficult to reach. Hundreds of families in isolated locations are reportedly relying on host communities and limited remaining food supplies, with many lacking enough food to last the day. Many of these areas can currently only be reached by helicopter.
The humanitarian situation remains complex, with damaged roads, bridges and communications networks continuing to hamper relief efforts. Communities downstream also remain on alert amid concerns about further flooding.
The floods have also damaged schools and health facilities, creating longer-term challenges for affected communities. According to humanitarian assessments, 38 schools have been damaged or destroyed and around 10,000 children require support to continue their education. Health services have also been disrupted, increasing the risk of disease outbreaks and other public health concerns.
"While search and rescue remains the immediate priority, recovery has already begun. Communities will need support to clear debris, restore essential services, rebuild livelihoods and recover from the trauma of this disaster. This will be a long-term recovery effort," Sally Thomas said.
Caritas Australia has joined the Emergency Action Alliance in the Nepal Floods Joint Appeal, with funds raised going to thirteen Australian organisations responding to the crisis.
Caritas Australia's Nepal Floods Appeal remains open to support emergency relief and recovery efforts through Caritas Nepal.
To support Caritas Australia’s Nepal Floods Appeal, visit www.caritas.org.au/nepal or call 1800 024 413 toll free.
Media contact: Tara Harvey 0484 002 021 tara.harvey@caritas.org.au or caritasmedia@caritas.org.au  
