Introduction: V.R.puram and Kunavaram Mandal/blocks in Yetapaka Revenue sub division, Erstwhile East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh are the confluence of Godavari and Sabari rivers in the month of July and August 2022 experienced heavy flood due to torrential rainfall followed by release of excessive water from Polavaram dam. Around 11,602 families were affected and 7,280 houses fully damaged and 4322 are partially damaged as an effect of the flood. Both The blocks remain detached from main cities and deprived of electricity connection for a fortnight. 

Assessment: Though the entire population was severely affected by the flood but there were around 100 families residing in the block found extremely vulnerable as the children of those families had recently lost their parents due to COVID 19 and the families were struggling to manage their day to day needs. Most of the families were headed by old people such as grandfather/grandmothers of these children. The flood further deteriorated their condition. The houses of these families were also completely damaged and they had to stay in temporary shelters. Due to extremely cold weather and without an adequate number of blankets the survival of the children was at stake. 

The response: Keeping in view of the situation 100 families were supported with Tarpaulin sheets to cover their thatched houses and provided blankets for the children to safeguard them from extreme cold. The support was provided in collaboration with local NGOs and Government officials which helped in smooth disbursement to the needy families.

Conclusion: This immediate support helped the families to reside safely inside their house and apparently safeguarded their children from rain and cold. Though these families with immediate action from STdH Foundation are enabled to manage the emergency situation, there is further assistance required for their long term rehabilitation.