Dignity in Displacement
"In the camps, families share everything. But when there's not enough, the elderly eat last. The disabled eat last. The pregnant women eat last."
Over 80% of Karenni State's population—more than 200,000 people—have been forced from their homes since the 2021 coup. Among the displaced, the most vulnerable face a cruel arithmetic: when aid is scarce, families prioritize those who can work, who can flee, who can contribute. The elderly, persons with disabilities, and pregnant women are seen as burdens.
The numbers tell part of the story: 80% of conflict-displaced adults show signs of mental health crisis. Malnutrition is rising. But numbers don't capture the grandmother who gives her rice to her grandchildren. The man who lost his legs to a landmine and now depends on relatives who can barely feed themselves. The pregnant woman walking for days to reach safety, not knowing if she'll find medical care.
This project reaches the people that other aid misses. Direct cash so families can meet their own needs with dignity. Psychosocial support for the trauma that comes from losing everything. And a simple message to the most marginalized: you are not a burden. You matter.
