Reflections from Vanuatu – rebuilding lives after Cyclone Pam
Jeff De Jesus, from our International Programs team shares his experience of working on the ground in Vanuatu to build disaster resilient communities after Cyclone Pam.
A secure home makes a world of difference
In Vanuatu, we are helping families rebuild by training them on disaster resilient construction.
What is the importance of DRR?
Across all of the countries we work in, disaster risk reduction (DRR) is a crucial component of almost every program. Resourcing communities with the materials, skills and knowledge is essential in order to minimise damage, and prevent the heartache and desperation caused by natural disasters.
Vanuatu – 3 months on
Just over three months since Cyclone Pam tore through Vanuatu, Habitat for Humanity will be helping affected families in their recovery by distributing shelter repair kits, assisting with shelter upgrades and providing skills training.
Homes built by Australian volunteers withstands Cyclone Pam force
More than a dozen houses built by Australian volunteers just outside Port Vila in Vanuatu survived intact, despite weathering the full force of Cyclone Pam one month ago. They are among the few houses still standing in the community, amid widespread destruction that has devastated parts of the country.
“The roof was blown off, and flooding had come in” – Sarah’s story
Seven-month pregnant, Sarah Charlie was very worried when she learned that a Category 5 cyclone was heading straight for her coastal village of Ekipe. It did not help that her husband was away in New Zealand working, and she had four children to care for.
Lawrence’s story
Lawrence and his family are one of the thousands whose homes were destroyed by Cyclone Pam when it made landfall on March 13. This is their story…
Crucial days for Vanuatu cyclone helpers
By Martin Thomas, Chief Executive, Habitat for Humanity Australia The initial response by government and aid agencies to the utter devastation caused when Cyclone Pam hit Vanuatu was reassuringly quick and effective. The public gave generously to the appeal for funds. The media provided compelling coverage.
12,000 shelter kits needed in Vanuatu
As more news arrives from Vanuatu, we are starting to see the complete scale of devastation caused by Cyclone Pam.
Why it’s critical we get the aid response to Vanuatu right
By Martin Thomas, chief executive, Habitat for Humanity Australia It is hard to imagine what it must be like living amid the devastation that has been wrought on Vanuatu in the wake of one of the most powerful cyclones to hit the Pacific region in modern history.