Disaster Relief
Since 2001, Embracing the World has been quick to respond to natural disasters. Most well-known for its $46 million tsunami-relief project, our volunteers have been at ground zero in several of the decade's most devastating natural disasters, from the 2001 Gujarat Earthquake to the 2008 Bihar Flood which displaced millions. In the face of these tragedies, Embracing the World has provided everything from food, medicine and temporary shelter to new homes, counseling and jobs.
With a dual focus on rapid response and extensive long-term rehabilitation, Embracing the World has developed a reputation for being first on the scene and the last to leave - long after the spotlight has faded away. Amma's empathy and concern for the disaster victims is so complete that she responds to every aspect of their situation - not only fulfilling their material and emotional needs, but also keeping an eye on their future. ETW's provision of long-term support for disaster victims has carried thousands through the darkest periods of their lives into the light of a hopeful future.
The relief-and-rehabilitation work of Embracing the World has been praised by government agencies, world-leaders and members of the United Nations as being something "above and beyond." This is because it is more than mere relief; it is the care of a mother for her children.
In 2005, the United Nations conferred "Special Consultative Status" to Embracing the World's India-based organization (MAM), thus enabling collaboration with UN agencies. This status was given in recognition of MAM's outstanding disaster-relief work and other humanitarian activities.
Olara A. Otunnu, former President of the UN Security Council and former Chairman of the UN Human Rights Commission speaks on his impression of Embracing the World's disaster relief work in India: