We have launched an urgent appeal to support communities devastated by flash flooding in Nepal. Over 1,000 people have died, and thousands remain unaccounted for.

Local Jesuit partners, Fe y Alegría Nepal and the Nepal Jesuit Social Institute (NJSI), are already on the ground, working closely with local authorities to assist communities in their moment of crisis.

Australians can donate now to our Emergency Action Fund to support urgent relief and the longer-term recovery.

Fr Shajumon Chakkalakkal SJ, Provincial of the Darjeeling-Nepal Province, said teachers and students in Jesuit schools in the area are among those affected by the floodwaters, vividly described in some media reports as “liquid cement”.

Fr Shajumon said: “Thousands lack food, electricity and internet connectivity. Many who had gone to work in a neighbouring district are missing or dead. All the shops are empty of supplies. If connectivity is not established, many will starve.”

In a report, Fr Agustus Ekka SJ, Director of Fe y Alegria Nepal, said some of his colleagues have been searching for family members who are missing.

Apart from the human toll and the number of villages wiped out, livelihoods have been lost as well. In addition, hundreds of children have lost their schools to the disaster.

After the 2015 earthquake, our Australian community helped Nepali children get back into their classrooms – rebuilding not just schools, but the roads and bridges that connect them. Once again, we expect education to be central to the coordinated response by our Jesuit partners. It is in the spirit of 2015 that we respond to the current situation.

Local schools run by Jesuit-founded Fe y Alegria Nepal have not been spared. While the buildings stand, several staff members are still waiting for news of missing family members and loved ones.

Jesuit Mission Australia CEO Helen Forde says: “In Nepal’s time of sorrow, we know that the generosity of Australian supporters will enable the critical relief work required over the next weeks and months. While they grieve, we know how much it means to support these devastated communities in every possible way.”

Through our Emergency Action Fund we’re standing with the people of Nepal, and with Fe y Alegría.

If you’re able to, please consider a gift today. It will help reach affected families immediately and in the months ahead. Thank you.