Support 500 Families in Poonch To Rebuild Their Lives After the Recent Crisis

In the peaceful hills of Jammu & Kashmir’s Poonch district stood homes built with love, resilience, and countless dreams. These were homes where laughter echoed through narrow corridors, where a child took her first step, where families gathered around a warm meal or in their homes.

But in the early hours of May 7, 2025, everything changed. A sudden crisis forced thousands to be evacuated — not out of choice, but out of sheer necessity, leaving behind everything they once held dear.

Today, as the dust begins to settle and a fragile calm returns, families are beginning to come back. But what awaits them are not the homes they left — only hollowed-out structures, broken walls, and remnants of their once vibrant lives.

They Left With Nothing. But They’re Determined to Return With Hope.

Nearly 500 families were displaced, many escaping with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Reports estimate that nearly 80% of the local population fled to nearby forests, camps, or temporary shelters.

“Imagine waking up one morning to a life forever changed. Your car, your belongings, the appliances you worked so hard to afford — all gone. But even worse, the sense of safety, of peace, disappears too,” says Raminder Singh, Director of THE SARA.

They Are Returning — To Rubble, But With Unbreakable Spirit

As families make their way back to what remains of their homes, the challenges they face are unimaginable. Empty kitchens, collapsed roofs, and the ashes of once-loved possessions greet them.

“Their children’s schoolbags, notebooks, toys — all lost. Their kitchens are bare. Vehicles destroyed. But they’re not giving up. They’re choosing to come back, to rebuild — and we must stand with them,” Raminder adds.

Since 2014, THE SARA (Sustainable Alternatives for Rural Accord) — a trusted NGO based in Jammu & Kashmir — has led several relief campaigns across the region. With the support of local authorities and partners, they are working to support 500 affected families with: groceries, hygiene essentials, medical supplies, and school supplies for children. 

“We want to meet them with support before the weight of loss takes over. We want to tell them: You’re not alone.”

Your Support Can Turn Despair Into Determination

Every donation — big or small — can help bring dignity, comfort, and hope back into the lives of these families. You can help put food on a family’s table. You can be the reason someone dares to dream again. Let your kindness be their foundation to rebuild and restore hope in Poonch.