Responding to the Nepal Earthquake

Bringing hope to remote areas

Several weeks ago, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck the small Himalayan country of Nepal. This initial quake killed thousands and affected millions within the region. This was complicated by more earthquakes that struck weeks later. All said, the death toll is estimated to be over 8,500 people—the deadliest disaster on record to strike Nepal.

Village of Thami Chagu. Photo by LuAnne Cadd.

Village of Thami Chagu. Photo by LuAnne Cadd.

MAF leased helicopters from Fishtail Air, a Nepali company, and set up an urgently needed helicopter response facility to enable relief workers to reach those in need. This service opened the doors for organizations like the Salvation Army, Save the Children, Operation Blessing, and many others to reach remote areas that would not otherwise have been accessible.

Himalayan Life brought aid to a region northwest of Kathmandu. Photo courtesy of Himalayan Life.

MAF’s generous supporters were quick to respond to the massive needs of the people of this country. Their gifts and prayers made it possible for food, water, tarps, and medical care to reach those who had been cut off from any help. They made possible stories like this one of a medical evac flight for a woman who was injured in the second quake.

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This support made possible testimonies like this from Daniel with United Vision Nepal: “The only way to reach [these remote regions] is by air, so we are very thankful for MAF. We’re very encouraged to be able to take our staff members there to build relationships with those communities we have been working amongst these past few years, and, at the same time, we are meeting new communities.”

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