Tropical Storm Catastrophe in the Island Nation Unleashes a Wave of Volunteerism

Local performer GK Reginold rides in a motorised fishing boat through flooded neighborhoods, hoping to deliver essential supplies to those in urgent circumstances.

Many families, Mr Reginold says, have gone without help for days, cut off by the country's worst natural catastrophe in memory.

Cyclone Ditwah struck the country last week, causing widespread destruction that claimed the lives of more than 400 people, left hundreds missing and destroyed 20,000 homes.

But the deluge has also inspired a surge in volunteerism, as citizens face what national leaders has described as the "most challenging natural disaster" in its history.

"The main reason why I wanted to do this, is to at least help them to have one meal," he shares. "And I was deeply gratified that I was able to do that."

More than one million people have been affected by the disaster and a state of emergency has been declared.

The military has deployed helicopters for search and rescue, while relief assistance is flowing in from foreign governments and non-governmental organisations.

But it will be a long journey to rebuild for Sri Lanka, which has seen its share of difficulties in recent years.

Activists Volunteer at Local Food Hub

In a Colombo suburb, individuals who protested in 2022 are now helping run a makeshift kitchen that churns out meals.

The protests from three years ago were driven by a spiralling economic crisis that caused shortages of fuel, food and medicine. Public anger exploded and led to political change. Now, that civic energy is being channelled toward disaster response.

"Some volunteers came after work, some rotated shifts and some even used vacation time to be there," a social media activist states.

"We mobilized our network as soon as we heard what was happening last Thursday," he says.

The organizer also considers the kitchen as an "continuation" of his community service in 2016, when heavy rains and floods affected hundreds across the country.

Volunteers have compiled hundreds of calls for assistance, sent the information to authorities, and organized the distribution of food.

"Whatever we asked for, we got an overwhelming amount in response from the community," he notes.

Online Initiatives for Aid

A wave of coordination is also happening on the internet, where social media users have created a shared list to channel resources and helpers.

Another community-run website helps supporters find shelters and see what is in highest demand in those areas.

Local businesses have organized donation drives, while local television channels have initiated an campaign to provide food and essential items like soap and toothbrushes.

Amid criticism over the handling of preparations, the president has urged citizens to "set aside all divisions" and "come together to restore the nation".

Critics have claimed authorities of disregarding forecasts, which they say worsened the disaster's effects.

Recently, opposition lawmakers protested in parliament, arguing that the ruling party was trying to limit debate on the disaster.

In affected communities, however, there remains a feeling of unity as people begin the cleanup after the floods.

"Ultimately, the joy of helping someone else to save lives makes that tiredness fade," the organizer wrote after working long hours at aid centers.

"Disasters are not new to us. But, the compassion and size of our hearts is greater than the damage that occurs during a disaster."