Looking back at a year of MAF serving the recovery effort in Nepal
Mansari was working along cliffs in Kashiguan, Nepal, gathering fodder to feed her animals when a rock that had been loosened during earlier earthquakes fell on her head. The 23-year-old fell 350m to the bottom of the cliff, where her parents found her unconscious but still breathing. They brought her to the Phase Nepal health post, where staff quickly arranged a helicopter through MAF. She was treated at a hospital in Kathmandu and her life was saved.
This is just one of the many people who have been impacted by the Nepal earthquakes, and it’s one example of how MAF’s organized helicopter service is making a difference in a country that is still reeling from the after effects of this disaster.
Here’s a look back over the past year at the damage done by the earthquakes and the difference MAF’s disaster response has made, thanks to the Lord working through generous donors.
Last spring, multiple earthquakes flattened entire villages—leaving thousands dead and millions in desperate situations.
Landslides cut off roads and footpaths, making it impossible for aid to reach some of the hardest-hit villages.
When word got out that MAF was organizing flights, MAF’s “command center” was buzzing as soon as the doors opened. Photo by LuAnne Cadd.
Groups quickly signed up to bring food and supplies to devastated communities.
Medevac flights brought critical patients to the hospital in Kathmandu.
Thanks to MAF’s coordinated flights, Médecins du Monde (MdM) was able to set up temporary clinics to treat the people. In one location, they were able to avert a serious Shigella dysentery outbreak.
Mountain Child’s remote schools were able to continue when MAF flew in 60 large canvas tents via sling load—cargo suspended by cable beneath the helicopter. The tents served as temporary classrooms and boarding facilities, enabling the schools to keep running and preventing vulnerable children from falling into the hands of traffickers.
The road to recovery is a long one for the people of Nepal, as they rebuild their homes and their livelihoods.
MAF is still in Nepal to help with recovery efforts and is taking steps towards having a long-term presence in the country.
Thank you for remembering the people of Nepal today. Please continue to pray for them and the groups that are serving there. And please pray for MAF’s leadership as they determine the best way to continue serving in this beautiful, rugged country. If the Lord is prompting your heart, please consider giving toward MAF’s future efforts in Nepal.
