Disasters can strike anytime and anywhere. The poor are often the worst affected by them, for a lack of infrastructure and contingency plans leaves them exposed and vulnerable.  People who suffer from leprosy are hit even harder by natural disasters. They are often excluded from emergency relief, such is the fear and misunderstanding about the disease. 

The Leprosy Mission tries to be on hand to meet the emergency needs of leprosy-affected people, their families and communities at such times.  We take this a step further in areas which are prone to regular disasters (flooding, drought) by helping people to prepare for them.  This lessens the impact of the disaster when it strikes.

Examples of preparedness include:

• Developing community - this helps to build resilience
• Drafting contingency plans, both at a personal and family level
• Building safe and strong houses, and community houses that can be used in time of disaster
• Meeting with local government