The Kids of Myanmar Association [KOM] was formed soon after the devastating Cyclone Nargis hit the Irrawaddy Delta region of Myanmar.  May 2^nd 2008 was a day that moved us all deeply, and affected an estimated 1.3 million people in the Delta region. Families lost loved ones, whole communities were displaced, crops and animals were destroyed; the affect was incredibly devastating.

Not only do we have a strong love for the country and its wonderful people; it is a place is very dear to us all.  We had the instant urge to react and do something to help.

During the immediate aftermath of the cyclone, our main concern was to raise funds to bring relief to those areas affected in the Delta region. We did so by setting up an emergency fund, with an initial amount of 10.000 USD, and using our local contacts and agency in Myanmar, we managed to put together a fantastic team of local people who have been our lifeline and huge support on the spot.  We cannot thank them enough for their outstanding devotion and efforts.  They take care of all the research, logistics, distribution and transportation. The initial materials that we managed to distribute throughout the Delta, included rice, water, beans, potatoes, blankets, clothing and waterproof sheeting.

During the 2nd phase we decided that it was important that villages receive clean water supplies.  Water contamination was a problem throughout the Delta, so our local team set about installing 11 water purifiers in various villages. These purifiers supply and provide hygienic, clean water to an estimated 7000 people in 9 villages from the Pyarpon and Bogolay townships.  We also provided chain saws to help people of the local villages to cut and clear the debris/wood that was blocking roads and scattered about.

The 3^rd phase - we felt it is essential to provide something long term for the communities of the Delta that will not only provide stability, but also help the people regain a sense of normality.  So far, we have rebuilt the roof of a school that was severely damaged in the village of Kyaiklat.  We have also created an entire 2^nd floor in the same school, allowing a further 200 students to attend lessons. This school will now be able to welcome a total of 450 pupils! We also received government approval to rebuild two schools that were completely destroyed.  They are the school of Letpan Thama that is situated in the town of Kundaing, and the school of Kyonku that is situated in the town of Banbuesu.  Each will provide education for 150 -170 pupils.

The funds we have managed raise so far have reached 80,000USD (€55,029). These have originated from the very generous donations of travel partners, clients, family and friends.  We would like to express our heartfelt thanks from the entire KOM team and also from the people of Myanmar whose lives have been touched by this generosity.

There is still so much to be done.  Our aim is to continue to raise awareness and donations, so that we together can continue to make a difference to the lives of the Kids of Myanmar!