Last week, Cyclone Hudhud (category 4) bore down on Eastern Andhra Pradesh with 120 mph sustained winds. Unfortunately, IDS’s network of tribal schools and hostel was in the direct line of the storm.   The cyclone damaged our hostel, destroyed at least three of our six schools, and flattened many villagers’ homes. In addition to rebuilding our schools, we are dedicated to helping the, approximately 200, villagers rebuild and restore their community.  

After relief operations started, it was difficult to reach many areas because of flooding and debris left in the cyclone’s wake. Our team reached two of the most accessible hamlets, Garudabilli and Uyyadavalasa. We have distributed relief supplies consisting rice, tetra pack milk, pulses, blankets and towels to 30 families from Garudabilli hamlet and to 25-30 families from Uyyadavalasa hamlet.

Families are in need of additional supplies including sarees, dhotis , bed sheets, towels, pulses, plates, glasses, torch lights, LED bulbs, tetra milk, solar lights and tarpaulin. Our relief efforts will reach about 500 tribal residents. For more information on our tribal schools and hostel, go to https://idsusa.orgprojects/education/tribal-education/.