During floods, it is necessary and correct for the government and relief teams to make efforts to reach out and provide emergency food such as banh chung, instant noodles, dry food, drinking water and essential items.
However, when flood waters in most localities have receded and people can go out and move around normally, emergency famine relief is no longer appropriate.
At this time, relief teams should consult with local authorities and residents to understand what they need most. At the same time, affected localities should quickly publish specific and transparent data on actual needs.
This information will help charities, individuals and communities have a clear view, thereby having appropriate support plans.
Experience from the storm and flood seasons in the Central region over the past many years shows that when the water recedes, what people need most are resources and means to rebuild their lives.
These needs can be daily necessities such as pots and pans, clothes, books for children, or larger ones such as funds to repair houses and purchase means of production.
Volunteer groups also need to be flexible in how they support. If they need to donate goods, then donate them; if it is more appropriate, then support money so that people can proactively shop according to their needs.
In particular, for basic items that can be purchased locally, direct cash support is the best option, helping people consider and calculate when shopping, avoiding inappropriate or redundant relief goods.
In addition, the transportation of relief supplies from a distance also needs to be carefully considered. Things that can be purchased locally should be purchased there to save on transportation costs and time. Do not send items from distant provinces when these items are available near the flooded area.
This not only helps reduce the logistical burden but also contributes to stimulating the local economy, helping them quickly recover their lives.
Reconstruction after a natural disaster is mainly the responsibility of local authorities. But if localities know how to coordinate closely, transparently and scientifically with relief groups and philanthropists across the country, not only will people benefit more but local authorities will also reduce the pressure in recovery work after natural disasters!
