HAND

Project HAND

Helping the Affected Neighbours in Disaster

Restoring Hope. Rebuilding Lives. Renewing Dreams.

Natural disasters leave behind more than damaged homes—they disrupt lives, shatter dreams, and leave deep emotional scars. In the wake of the devastating landslides that struck Chooralmala and Mundakai, Kerala, in August 2024, Vincentian Social Services launched Project HAND (Helping the Affected Neighbours in Disaster) to accompany children and families on their journey from loss to healing.

Why Project HAND?

Our team visited the temporary relief camps soon after the disaster. Listening to stories of survival, witnessing unimaginable loss, and seeing children trying to smile amid tragedy made one truth unmistakable: recovery requires more than relief—it requires long-term care, compassion, and hope.

Project HAND was born from this conviction.

Our Response

Project HAND is a long-term humanitarian initiative that supports disaster-affected children and families through education, psychosocial care, and community empowerment. Made possible through generous contributions from well-wishers and the Vincentian community, the project addresses both immediate needs and long-term recovery.

Psychosocial Care and Life Skills

Children affected by trauma receive structured life skills programmes that strengthen self-confidence, emotional resilience, and social adjustment. Parents are also engaged through support meetings that help them create nurturing environments for their children. Those requiring specialized care are connected with professional trauma counsellors.

Education and Healthcare

To ensure that tragedy does not interrupt a child's future, Project HAND provides educational scholarships and extends medical assistance to families facing health-related challenges following the disaster.

Healing Through Hope

In partnership with ESAF Foundation and Muthoot CSR, the project organized residential healing camps—Trace of Dreams and Arohi—designed to restore confidence, build resilience, and promote emotional wellbeing. Through creative activities, group experiences, recreation, and guided reflection, children rediscover joy, friendship, and hope.

Advocacy for Lasting Recovery

Beyond direct services, Project HAND advocates for the rights and long-term rehabilitation of disaster-affected communities, working towards systems that are more responsive, inclusive, and resilient.

Our Vision

Project HAND is more than a disaster response programme—it is a commitment to stand beside children and families long after emergency relief has ended. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to heal, learn, and dream again.

Together, we continue to restore dignity, rebuild lives, and ensure that hope rises stronger than disaster.