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Myanmar/Burma*
The country now known as Myanmar was formed from a forced union of minority ethnic groups and their lands with the Burmese majority. Myanmar gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1948. A largely rural, densely forested country, the country is endowed with extremely fertile soil and has important offshore oil and gas deposits. However, its people remain very poor and the pace of development is slow.
Episcopal Relief & Development is working with our partners in Myanmar to provide assistance to those suffering from the devastation caused by Cyclone Nargis in May 2008. Click here to read an update of our work in Myanmar following Cyclone Nargis.
Episcopal Relief & Development has also partnered with the Church of the Province of Myanmar to build its capacity to plan and implement development programs to respond to the specific needs within its dioceses, including training diocesan staff and supporting various projects.
Creating Economic Opportunities and Strengthening Communities
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School materials, training and support for teachers serving in 13 schools allow over 600 displaced students to continue their education in the Diocese of Hpa-an.
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Micro-finance programs, training and technical assistance help families in the Pyay Delta and Yangon areas earn additional income.
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Vocational training for 60 youth and young adults in the Diocese of Toungoo provides needed job skills in agriculture, sewing, computers, motor vehicle repair and carpentry.
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Support for school costs allows 345 students, including 100 primary level, 50 middle level, 40 high school, 10 university, 100 boarding students and 135 day students to complete their education in the Diocese of Toungoo.
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New rice mills in six parishes create opportunities to increase income for families in the Diocese of Sittwe.
Rebuilding Initiatives
Episcopal Relief & Development is assisting the Church in rebuilding specific properties that were damaged in recent years.
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Rebuilding homes for 32 families who lost their houses in a fire in 2006.
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Constructing a water system that provides clean water supply for St. John’s parish and community in Paletwa.
*Please note: the name Myanmar is not recognized by the US government which still refers to the country as Burma, the name given by the British colonial government.
