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Samaritan's Purse Responds to Earthquake in Myanmar

On March 28, 2025, Myanmar and parts of Thailand were shaken by a catastrophic 7.7-magnitude earthquake, soon followed by a significant aftershock measuring 6.4 on the Richter scale. This devastating natural disaster has led to widespread destruction and loss of life, with the current reports indicating that over 1,700 individuals have tragically lost their lives, and thousands more are injured or missing. In the aftermath of such a calamity, the needs of the affected communities are immense, prompting urgent action from international relief organizations.

Immediate Response by Samaritan's Purse

Samaritan's Purse, a well-known international relief organization based in Boone, North Carolina, has activated its Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) in response to the growing humanitarian crisis. As a swift move to address the escalating needs, they have deployed team members from their field offices in Vietnam and Cambodia. The organization is set to send an Emergency Field Hospital equipped to deliver critical medical care to the victims.

This Emergency Field Hospital will be a robust setup featuring two operating theaters, an emergency room, inpatient wards, a pharmacy, and a laboratory—making it one of the largest models of such units. These medical facilities are vital for providing urgent care as search and rescue efforts continue across the devastated regions.

Logistics and Preparations

The organization has organized the airlift of the first components of the medical facility via a DC-8 combi-jet, which departed from Greensboro, North Carolina, and is scheduled to make a stop in Calgary to load the hospital equipment. This flight will not only transport the hospital but will also carry 28 specialized disaster response experts, including medical professionals such as doctors and nurses, who are essential to deliver immediate medical assistance.

Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan's Purse, highlighted the organization's commitment during this trying time, saying, "This devastating earthquake has rocked Myanmar and Thailand, killing at least 1,700 people and leaving entire communities in ruins. Families are grieving, and many are left without shelter as aftershocks continue to hit the area. Samaritan's Purse is responding in Jesus' Name to bring relief to those who are hurting."

Continued Support and Future Deployment

In addition to the medical facility, Samaritan's Purse is prepared to airlift other critical supplies in the coming days. These include water filtration systems, emergency shelter materials, flashlights, and hygiene kits, all essential in the wake of such a disaster. The organization is coordinating with local authorities and partnering with established church groups on the ground to ensure that aid reaches those most in need effectively and efficiently.

Samaritan's Purse has a long-standing history of service in Myanmar, with previous efforts including a response to Cyclone Nargis in 2008. They have maintained an office in the country until 2022 and have supported children and families through their Operation Christmas Child program, delivering over 22,000 gifts just last year. This episode reflects the organization's ongoing commitment to serving those affected by disasters, providing both physical relief and spiritual hope.

Conclusion

Samaritan's Purse operates across more than 100 countries, delivering assistance to victims of war, disease, disaster, poverty, famine, and persecution. Their intervention following the tragic earthquake in Myanmar reinforces their mission to address the immediate and long-term needs of those in crisis, driven by compassion and faith. For more detailed information on their ongoing efforts, visit SamaritansPurse.org.