The Leprosy Mission Nepal (TLMN) has supported 8813 people in 12 of the 14 affected districts since the Great Earthquake three months ago.

Free medical care, counseling, shelter, cash, food and other emergency aid have been key elements of TLMN’s response.

Having long-standing community connections has enabled the charity to target the majority of its earthquake response to the most marginalised people, TLMN Country Director Shovakhar Kandel said.

“TLMN has served the most vulnerable people in Nepal for many years – in villages, through cooperatives, self-help groups and at our major medical facility, Anandaban Hospital.  Since 25 April we have used our contacts and knowledge to ensure the needs of people affected by leprosy and other disabilities, female-headed households, the very poor and other marginalised groups are not

“Our staff have worked very hard despite many having suffered damage to their own homes.  Government officials, MPs, local authorities, community leaders and development organizations such as CBM have been very supportive.  

“And of course we are extremely thankful to the tens of thousands of Leprosy Mission supporters around the world who have donated over US$1.6m so far to fund TLMN’s emergency and recovery work. This global generosity is deeply appreciated by all those in need, and is another fine example of the concern and love for Nepal at this difficult time.”

Key elements of the TLMN response since 25 April 2015  are 412 earthquake-affected people have received treatment at Anandaban Hospital. This has included major and minor surgeries, physiotherapy and assistive devices.

According to a press relese,1555 people affected by the earthquake have been treated at 15 emergency medical camps conducted in five districts (Lalitpur, Kavre, Makwanpur, Sindhupalchowk, Dolakha) and 1890 people have been treated by TLMN at 20 health screening camps, in a project funded by CBM

TLMN also distributed 2151 tarpaulins to people affected by earthquakes in Ramechhap, Okhaldhunga, Kavre, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Dolakha, Rasuwa and Sindhupalchowk

Likewise, 1316 households in 11 earthquake-affected districts have received recovery support of 8 sheets of CGI roof sheeting and/or cash support.  This mainly went to TLMN-facilitated micro-finance self help groups and Cooperatives and their community members.

"TLMN has created a US$2.6m plan for its earthquake response over the next three years.  Shelter support and long-term medical care will be key features, as will be rebuilding and renovation work to ensure Anandaban Hospital can continue to fulfill its role as a community hospital, as Nepal’s leading national leprosy hospital and a recognized referral centre during medical emergencies," said Kandel.