Jesuit Mission Australia stresses the urgent call for support as the humanitarian catastrophe in Myanmar escalates, with new UN figures revealing that over 22 million people—approximately one-third of the population—are now in critical need of humanitarian assistance.
As the conflict escalates, Jesuit Mission’s trusted partners in Myanmar report that several areas where they operate have recently come under direct attack, with bombings affecting villages, churches, schools, and aid centres.
Recently the Cathedral and Bishop’s offices in Banmaw were set on fire and bombed, “representing an attack on the people’s faith, culture and hopes,” said Jesuit Mission’s partner on the ground.
These attacks have forced entire communities—who are already marginalised—to flee deep into the jungle, where they construct makeshift shelters out of tarpaulin and bamboo, turning forest clearings into temporary homes and classrooms as they brace for an uncertain future.
To reach displaced communities, local Jesuit partners navigate blocked roads, remote villages, checkpoints, landmines and internet blackouts. With a trusted network of priests, sisters, Buddhist leaders and lay collaborators, they deliver aid under immense pressure—building partnerships that are now vital for recovery and peacebuilding in Myanmar.
Many crisis-affected communities rely on their humanitarian support due to years of economic collapse, conflict and natural disasters, including the floods from Typhoon Yagi in 2024 and the recent earthquakes on 28 March this year.
In the three months since the devastating earthquake on 28 March, Australians have helped Jesuit Mission’s local partners to:
- Reconstruct three bridges and one solar power system in Southern Shan State;
- Commence rebuilding 30 shelters and two multi-purpose halls; and
- Distribute emergency food packages to an additional 3,806 people.
“After three years of being unable to afford a full bag of rice… Seeing a full sack of rice at home brought us to tears—it meant more than survival; it gave us space to breathe, to plan, and to hope again,” said one recipient.
“We are deeply grateful to our Jesuit partners and Australian supporters, whose generosity makes it possible to deliver life-saving aid and restore hope to communities in their darkest hour,” said Helen Forde, CEO of Jesuit Mission Australia.
Thanks to support from Australian donors, the Jesuit Mission Emergency Action Fund, since 2021 has helped over 850,000 women, men and children in 14 countries to survive devastation, crisis and turmoil.
By donating today, you can help bring vital relief and hope to those suffering in war-torn Myanmar or sign up for One Foot Raised today for Saint Ignatius Day, 31 July to walk in solidarity with the people of Myanmar.
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