Myanmar Earthquake Relief

Dear Disciples,

On March 28, 2025, a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. Just minutes later, a powerful aftershock reaching as far as Thailand, Bangladesh, and southeast China worsened the devastation, leaving thousands injured, missing, or without shelter. Communities are struggling with collapsed infrastructure, overwhelmed hospitals, and a severe lack of food, clean water, and medical supplies. ​

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As of Saturday afternoon (March 29), the U.S. Geological Survey is reporting over 1,600 confirmed deaths with estimates expected to exceed 10,000. Losses are expected to exceed Myanmar’s total economic output. 

Myanmar is considered one of the most geologically “active” areas in the world, making it prone to earthquakes. In the last century, the area has experienced six earthquakes that were more than 7 magnitude, leading to several compounded recoveries. The socioeconomic struggles that followed, the major political upheaval of an active civil war, alongside other weather-related disasters have made our partners' response even more challenging. 

In response to this earthquake, our partners are mobilizing immediate humanitarian aid to the most vulnerable populations, including women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. Week of Compassion is supporting our partners with 

• emergency relief kits (tents, blankets, first aid supplies)
• food assistance (ready-to-eat meals and essential provisions)
• clean water and sanitation support (hygiene kits, bottled water, purification tablets)
• psychosocial and community support (children’s items, counseling materials)

Week of Compassion is providing an immediate $100,000 emergency grant to partners to support 750 individuals from 150 households over the next three months. These recovery efforts will evolve over the coming weeks, months, and years. As the harsh summer season approaches, extended periods of displacement stand to heighten health hazards for already vulnerable communities. Week of Compassion is committed to accompanying our partners through the various phases of long-term recovery as needs change. 

If you would like to support this earthquake relief effort, please designate your gift for “International Emergency Response”. 

With gratitude,

Rev. Vy T. Nguyen
Executive Director

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