This three-year initiative from H&M Foundation is supported by a financial investment of SEK7.50m ($680,951) and aims to mainly fortify communities in the states of Assam and Uttar Pradesh in India that are vulnerable to disasters and the consequences of climate change.
Communities affected by disasters frequently encounter several challenges. In the short term, these may include loss of life, injuries, forced relocation, and significant damage to infrastructure.
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Over an extended period, they may grapple with financial strain, health crises, emotional distress, and disruptions in essential services like education.
In response, the collaboration adopts a multi-phase strategy that starts with emergency response and relief efforts, progresses into rehabilitation and reconstruction, and ultimately aims to foster sustainable development and resilience.
The initiative is designed to cater to the particular requirements of disaster-stricken communities through prompt aid delivery and sustained recovery support.
It also emphasises community empowerment, inclusiveness, and efficient allocation and execution of resources while maintaining ongoing oversight and assessment.
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By GlobalDataH&M Foundation project manager Kristina Svartling said: “This partnership marks a significant step towards building resilient and sustainable communities in Assam and Uttar Pradesh. By addressing both immediate relief and long-term recovery, we aim to empower the most vulnerable populations to withstand future disasters and climate challenges. This collaboration is not just about rebuilding what was lost but about creating a foundation for a brighter, more inclusive future.”
Vulnerable groups—including the elderly, children, individuals with disabilities, and economically disadvantaged populations—are particularly susceptible during disasters and often experience the most severe challenges.
Environmental factors such as geographic location and climate change further exacerbate these vulnerabilities.
The funding from H&M Foundation is projected to benefit approximately 250,000 individuals across the two states.
The project specifically targets:
1. Vulnerable communities impacted by natural disasters, including marginalised groups such as women, children, the elderly, minorities, and single parents.
2. Households affected by disasters, focusing on marginalised segments like landless farmers, indigenous communities, and persons with disabilities.
3. Environmental preservation efforts aimed at restoring ecosystems in disaster-affected regions.
While a portion of the budget is allocated for immediate relief, covering necessities like food, water, shelter, and medical supplies, a significant share is dedicated to recovery and preparedness initiatives.
By concentrating on critical areas such as shelter provision, livelihood support, water sanitation, and health services, the targeted communities are likely to enhance their resilience against future disasters and climate-related crises.
Additionally, environmental sustainability is woven into the project’s framework to ensure the long-term health of ecosystems alongside community well-being.
Implementing sustainable infrastructure solutions—including waste management systems, renewable energy sources, and biodiversity conservation initiatives—will recognize the interdependence of environmental health and community resilience.
A crucial element for the success of this project lies in engaging the affected communities themselves. This engagement will leverage local knowledge while fostering collaboration among government agencies, non-profit organisations, private sector stakeholders, and community members.
Furthermore, the project adopts a systems change approach that addresses policies, practices, resource flows, and behavioural changes necessary for fostering resilience within these vulnerable populations.
In September last year, the H&M Foundation exclusively disclosed its plan to extend the Saamuhika Shakti project, an initiative aimed at improving the livelihoods of informal waste pickers in India for another three years with an additional $11m funding for its second phase.
The collaboration aims to enhance the resilience of communities exposed to disasters and climate change impacts in Assam and Uttar Pradesh. Credit: H&M Foundation.
