UNDP supports nearly 2.000 flood-affected households in Gia Lai

From 9 to 12 February, UNDP, in coordination with the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, the Gia Lai Provincial Red Cross, and local authorities, organized the distribution of multi-purpose cash assistance and other forms of support to households severely affected by storms and floods in Gia Lai Province.

The activities are part of the programme titled “Cash assistance, housing repair and essential household items support for vulnerable flood-affected households in Gia Lai Province,” funded by the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF). The initiative aims to help affected families stabilize their lives, address immediate losses, and recover more quickly in the aftermath of the disaster.

Specifically, 1.920 households across seven communes and wards received multi-purpose cash assistance, enabling them to flexibly cover essential needs such as food, healthcare, household supplies, and education expenses. In addition, 280 households were supported with home repairs to ensure safer living conditions and reduce vulnerability to future disasters. A further 1.000 households received essential household item kits to help restore basic living conditions.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Ms. Nguyen Thi Thanh Lich, Vice Chairwoman of the Gia Lai Provincial People’s Committee, expressed her appreciation for UNDP’s timely support. “This is practical and prompt assistance, providing much-needed relief for poor and near-poor households in Gia Lai as they work to overcome the consequences of the storms and floods. Delivering the support ahead of the Lunar New Year will help families repair their homes and prepare for a warmer, more secure Tet celebration,” she said. “The province is committed to closely monitoring the allocation process to ensure that the assistance reaches the right beneficiaries in a transparent and accountable manner.”

According to Ms. Francesca Nardini, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP in Viet Nam, the programme’s multi-purpose cash assistance enables households to make informed decisions on how best to meet their most urgent needs.

“Safe and stable housing is a fundamental pillar of recovery. We are pleased to support poor and near-poor households, as well as those in particularly vulnerable circumstances, in repairing their homes, thereby strengthening their protection against cold weather and heavy rains, while safeguarding their health and dignity,” she added.

“The support from the United Nations goes beyond material value. It not only helps families repair their homes and purchase essential items, but also serves as a tremendous source of encouragement, reflecting compassionate solidarity with flood-affected communities. We believe this support will provide families with a strong foundation to overcome adversity and rebuild their lives in a sustainable manner,” said Mr. Duong Hiep Hoa, Chairman of the Canh Vinh Commune People’s Committee.

Meanwhile, Ms. Dang Thi Ngoc, one of the beneficiaries, expressed her emotion: “Receiving VND 20 million to repair my house makes me feel relieved and truly happy. I used the money to pay workers and buy roofing sheets and construction materials. Now my family has a proper home to live in, sheltered from sun and rain, and we can welcome Tet with peace of mind.”

The distribution was carried out smoothly and in full compliance with regulations, ensuring transparency, accountability, and close coordination among the Red Cross, local authorities, and relevant partners. The delegation also visited several beneficiary households to better understand their circumstances and further strengthen coordination and engagement among all parties involved in the assistance efforts.