Hundreds of Thousands Still Affected by Brazil’s Floods, Helped by ADRA

The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) continues to escalate its support for communities devastated by floods in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, in the spring. Following the declaration of a state of emergency on May 2, ADRA swiftly deployed teams to assess the situation and deliver urgent humanitarian aid to the impacted areas. 

The extreme weather, which began with torrential rains in April, affected around 2.3 million people in Brazil, displacing hundreds of thousands, many of whom were relocated to temporary shelters. The disaster has claimed the lives of at least 180 individuals, with dozens more still missing, according to the country’s civil defense agency. 

ADRA’s country office in Brazil is playing a crucial role in supporting thousands affected by the tragedy. Since the onset of the emergency, the humanitarian agency has partnered with volunteers, local authorities, and other organizations to assist nearly 52,000 people. Additionally, ADRA has been operating four temporary shelters, providing essential support to more than 4,200 children and adolescents. 

“With every penny donated, we were able to provide a new start for thousands of families in Rio Grande do Sul,” João Barboza, ADRA Brazil’s emergency analyst, said. 

One of ADRA Brazil’s key relief efforts has been the distribution of thousands of meals prepared and served by its Mobile Unit, which is equipped with a kitchen to provide essential nourishment to those who have lost everything. This initiative has been supported by more than 200 dedicated volunteers, who have worked in various shifts and locations to serve devastated villages twice daily.

So far, the relief assistance has included multipurpose vouchers — more than 23,000 vouchers that enable families to buy essential products tailored to their needs; laundry services — more than 35,000 tons of laundry washed to ensure affected families had clean clothing; and meal distribution — more than 5,000 cooked meals and 4,400 food baskets distributed to ensure nourishment and sustainable food support to those in need.

It has also included hygiene and washing kits — more than 6,100 hygiene and washing kits supplied to encourage personal hygiene and sanitation practices among impacted people; water supply — more than 4,000 liters of water delivered to address a critical need for clean drinking water; and clothing and shoes — more than 27,000 pieces of clothing and shoes delivered to those who lost their belongings in the disaster. Finally, it has provided bed linen and mattresses — more than 7,400 bedsheets, blankets, and mattresses supplied to displaced families.

The restoration process in Rio Grande do Sul is a long-term endeavor, regional ADRA leaders said. Still, ADRA, in collaboration with the community and its partners, remains dedicated to helping families rebuild after the disaster.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed. Your donations are being used transparently and effectively, bringing hope and relief to the families of Rio Grande do Sul,” Barboza said.