Nepal, a country renowned for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes, is also home to many ethnic communities that face numerous challenges, especially after the 2015 earthquake. And most of the country locations of Nepal lost their homes and they build temporary houses for their living. One such challenge is the bitter cold that grips the nation during the winter months. We aim to explore the impact of social work initiatives focusing on blanket distribution in Nepal. The provision of blankets not only addresses the immediate need for warmth but also demonstrates the power of collective action in the rural communities of ruby valley Sertung and Chalish village, Dhading.
This project was funded by Conscious Connections Foundation (Denise Didi and her team) and this program was organized by Chandra Gurung and Yogendra Tamang in February 2016. We distributed 200 (two hundred families) in Sertung and Chalish Village. We loaded from Kathmandu to Dhading and Dhading to Dundure, after that we hired four porters to carry all the way to Sertung. It took us 2 days from Kathmandu Sertung.
Sertung and Chalish are situated 2000m and 1600m from the sea level and those places are near Mt. Ganesh Himal 7420M. During the winter season, temperatures plummet, posing significant risks to health due to the mountain region of Dhading. Blanket distribution initiatives perform a vital role in mitigating these risks from cold and providing comfort to a good night. Social workers conduct thorough assessments to identify communities most in need of blankets. These communities may include remote villages, temporary individuals, elderly populations, and children. Effective blanket distribution requires collaboration with local, mother groups, non-profit organizations, and community clubs. Social workers facilitate partnerships to ensure the equitable and efficient distribution of blankets.
Conclusion
Blanket distribution initiatives in Sertung and chalish have proven to be effective in addressing the immediate needs of vulnerable communities during the harsh winter months. Social workers play a pivotal role in identifying and reaching out to these communities, thereby empowering them and fostering a spirit of collective support. However, it is essential to view blanket distribution as a part of broader, sustainable development efforts to build resilience and combat the root causes of vulnerability in Nepal. By continuing to work collaboratively with various stakeholders, social workers can create a positive and lasting impact on the lives of those in need.
