Bhubaneswar: Even as flood-hit families in Balasore struggle to rebuild their lives, a diaspora charity organisation based in the US, constituting mainly of Odias, has stepped in with relief supplies mobilising support from thousands of kilometres away.The foundation’s volunteers have distributed dry ration kits with food items like biscuits, bread and puffed rice; drinking water; blankets; clothing; hygiene essentials and tarpaulins in the flood-affected areas in and on the outskirts of Balasore.The funds were channelled through local volunteers and partner organisations in Odisha to ensure relief reached affected families quickly. As many as 150 kits were given away on Friday and 100 packets on Saturday. “Beneficiaries were identified with the support of local volunteers who were familiar with the area, ensuring that assistance reached those most in need,” said Satya Shibsundar Dash, a volunteer who represents the foundation in India.The foundation’s immediate priority is to assess the continuing needs of flood-affected families and provide additional relief or recovery assistance wherever necessary. “Even though we live thousands of kilometres away, Odisha remains our home. Supporting people during times of crisis is our collective responsibility and a way of giving back,” said Ashis Satpathy, a volunteer of the foundation in the US.The relief effort was supported through the foundation’s resources and funds collected through the recent Odisha Divas celebration in southern California and contributions from its supporters. Every year, the proceeds collected from the Odisha Divas event are spent on charity work in Odisha, said Satpathy.
