On 3 August 2014, a magnitude-6.5 earthquake struck Ludian County in Zhaotong City in Yunnan Province, leaving more than 600 dead, over 3,000 injured, at least 80 thousand houses damaged or destroyed. Nearly 23 thousand victims were homeless.
Two weeks after the earthquake in Ludian County, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province, the survivors were moved to resettlement centres. Their basic needs have been met but their sadness of losing their beloved ones and homes continues. In addition to delivering emergency relief materials, The Salvation Army has also sent a Counselling Team to provide counselling service for survivors. The Team composed of experienced social workers and well-trained volunteers reached Shuimo Township and Lungtoushan Township, organising activities for children at the resettlement centres, as well as individual counselling for survivors who suffer from post-traumatic stress.
Psychological Support Activities in Shuimo Township and Lungtoushan Township
The Counselling Team brought materials, such as musical instruments, colour pencils, drawing papers, play dough and puppets, to the resettlement centres in Shuimo Township and Lungtoushan Township, and provided counselling for the children through games. For example, social workers and volunteers played puppets with children, helping them to express stress and emotions caused by the earthquake.
Apart from children counselling, leaflets about self-help during the post-earthquake period were delivered, and individual counselling was provided to the survivors in need.
The Salvation Army plans to distribute warm clothing and daily necessities to over 15,000 victims to tide over the coming cold weather. We will keep up with the needs of the victims and provide necessary assistance for future reconstruction and development work.
