Background

Cyclone Nargis is a category 3 storm which struck the Delta region of Myanmar's Ayeyarwaddy and Yangon Divisions on the 2^nd and 3^rd of May, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Accompanying the cyclone was a 12-feet tidal surge which resulted in thousands of deaths, property destructions and severe damage to the paddy fields of Myanmar's foremost rice growing district.

At present it is estimated that approximately 2 million people are in need of immediate and longer term aids to provide basic food clothing and shelter, so that they can begin to rebuild their shattered lives. Crucially, June is the rice planting season, and without massive aids and assistance, it is unlikely that farmers will be able to return and repair their damaged fields for this season.

Role of FORM

FORM is taking two immediate actions in assisting with the cyclone relief efforts:

a) Short Term

Through its specially designated website (www.justgiving.com/myanmarcyclone) FORM is currently raising funds through its network particularly in the UK and in the US. Donations to this fund are tax deductible and these donations are now being used to directly help the victims in the worst-hit areas including Bogalay, Labutta, Moulmeingyun , etc.

As local NGO, FORM is able to work with community leaders and township associations to distribute aids such as rice, cooking pots, plastic sheets and candles to cyclone survivors. In partnership with the Myanmar Medical Association FORM is also sending out mini-medical teams to disaster areas like Kungyangone, Kaw-hmu, Dedaye to provide free medical treatment.

b) Long Term

The impacts of this natural disaster will last well into 2009 and beyond. Not only the cyclone hit Ayeyarwaddy division but mangrove forests of the entire length of Myanmar 1,600 miles long areas need to be assessed and restored to save lives from natural disaster like Cyclone Nargis.

FORM will therefore turn its attention in the later half of this year to the following longer term objectives.

• Reforestation of mangrove for protection
• Poverty Relief
• Orphans
• Education and Health
• Renewable Energy

2 millions of cyclone survivors including lots of kids are living on roadside waiting for help

An elderly cyclone survivor in a hut roadside

FORM's distribution of rice and cooking pots for cyclone victims

The moment of smiles for cyclone victims