On Wednesday morning, August 26, a glacier in the Himalayas broke free from the underlying rock and crashed a few thousand feet to the valley below. The force and debris caused an avalanche which gained momentum and became a powerful debris flood. Churning with rocks, mud and other debris, this massive force of nature grew rapidly and became a devastating flash flood.

This wall of mud and water moving at estimated speeds of 90-120 mph rushed downstream, wiping out bridges and towns, cutting off entire communities from aid and support. Anything in the path of the flood was either washed away or buried in layers of mud and debris left behind. Sources estimate that more than 84,270 people, including 32,000 children have been affected by this disaster. The death toll has reached 1,400 with over 6,000 still missing.

A few days ago, our team connected with the Mayor of Belkotgadhi, a municipality in the Nuwakot District of Bagmati Province, Nepal. Arrangements have been made to begin a project in this area. Our current project will focus on digging out homes that have been buried in the layers of mud left behind by the flood, using excavators and other equipment as needed. It will also include clearing mud and debris from inside the homes with the goal of helping as many families and individuals as we can find some measure of stability and take the next step towards recovery and rebuilding.

Our current goal is an 8 week project focused on digging out as many homes as possible. The number of homes will vary depending on factors like accessibility, depth of mud and equipment availability and manpower. Our fundraising goal for Nepal is $40,000. Your donations will cover costs like fuel for the excavator and other equipment, supplies, transportation, and also team and travel expenses. Would you consider donating to support the Nepal Flood Cleanup Project? Your support will help bring hope and encouragement to the people of Nepal.