Severe rain storms across Eastern Australia in March and April were recorded as one of the worst floods in the nation’s history. Thousands of people had to evacuate their homes in Queensland and New South Wales (NSW), alongside more than 20 lives lost. Tens of thousands of homes and businesses were without power or damaged by floodwaters.
This was a prime example of Amma’s wish for compassion in action at the grassroots level of society. Our volunteer efforts in Australia were small in scale, but wide in the scope of selfless service.
They galvanised into action, offering donations and providing crucial assistance on the ground for those affected. In addition, they started a fundraising campaign to provide further humanitarian support.
By the end of June, Amma Australia brought the flood appeal to a close having raised more than $25,000 AUD through donations. The teams worked with local charities and groups to identify what was most essential from emergency through to recovery.
This included cooked meals, basic needs supplies, and shelter. In addition, they provided first aid kits to First Nations communities, local services, and residents. These were tailored to treat wounds and prevent mosquito-borne illnesses.
Our coordinators especially acknowledged the incredible efforts of the Byron Bay volunteers in NSW. Although personally affected by the floods, they identified key areas of need for First Nations in consultation with community leaders, social workers, and the Bunjum Aboriginal Corporation.
Concentrating on channelling aid into small projects with high impact, their work had a profound effect on people’s lives. For five months, it resulted in support for displaced families on Cabbage Tree Island where they were relocated to a remote learning centre at a primary school during recovery. The volunteers provided weekly fruit boxes for the families and lunchbox snacks for the children. As well, the team purchased 37 children’s reading books.
Impact
- $25,000 AUD raised for disaster relief
- $12,000 AUD in grocery vouchers purchased and distributed
- $4,500 AUD donation to the Resilient Lismore Two Rooms Project
- 300 meals cooked and served
- 50 first aid kits to First Nations communities, local services and residents
- 5 months of weekly fruit boxes and snacks for displaced families of Cabbage Tree Island
- 37 reading books for children of Cabbage Tree Island
