Shanti Leprahilfe (Shanti Leprosy Relief) Dortmund is helping after the earthquake in western Nepal on November 3.
The magnitude 6.4 earthquake killed 150 people. As with the strongest quake in Nepal in 2015, survivors remain outdoors for fear of aftershocks. Shanti therefore sent 1,350 sleeping bags and 60 large tarpaulins to the earthquake zone as an immediate measure. Filters for drinking water treatment, jackets, tarpaulins, and more sleeping bags are to follow.
Shanti has been based in Kathmandu since 1994 and is committed to helping the poorest of the poor. In Nepal, leprosy sufferers and people with disabilities are rejected from society: sickness and disability are considered the punishment of the gods and even those who come into contact with, care for, or house these people are considered to obtain bad karma. The mission of Shanti Leprahilfe Dortmund is to provide the financial means necessary to help these people find their place in society. The partner organisation in Kathmandu, Shanti Sewa Griha, can provide the local work necessary thanks to the funds primarily raised in Germany.
The people who have been excluded from society, especially leprosy sufferers, live together in communities and the association’s workshops manufacture the products that they and others need. Shanti attaches particular importance to preserving the art, culture, and traditions of Nepal, such as Meitili painting, Nepalese dance, and Dhakar weaving. One of Shanti’s main goals is to support children in thinking creatively and socially and leading responsible lives. An important aid here is Waldorf pedagogy. There are constant emergencies of all kinds in Kathmandu, which the Shanti staff take care of in a touching way. Every day, for example, 1200 meals are prepared, 280 of which are distributed in a nearby slum.
More Shanti Leprahilfe
Title image Shanti’s Hape Kerkeling Clinic in Kathmandu-Tilganga, which also provides a pharmacy, outpatient clinic and employment facilities. Source: Shanti Leprahilfe
