You may well have heard about Cyclone Idai, that has swept across Southern Africa, leaving behind a trial of destruction in Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi. Hundreds have been killed and almost 2.6 Million People have been  affected. In  Malawi the government estimates that Cyclone Idai has impacted more than 840,000 people, with 56 deaths and 577 injuries recorded. More than 94,000 people are estimated to be  displaced, that is 60%  of the population of Harrogate, displaced. Left without a home. The  harvest was looking promising for 2019, but that has changed. Crops have been destroyed, meaning that a future famine, and food insecurity  is not possible, it is inevitable. Last week the Open Arms team  travelled to Chikwawa and Nsanje to make an assessment of eight families they support living where flood damage is most severe. They were able to reach 6 of the 8 families; two are still inaccessible as flood water continues to make roads and farmland impassable. Open Arms has launched an appeal to provide food, building materials, transport essential medicines and water purification tablets to the 8 families  that are in such despirate need. Any additional funds will be used to support the open arms familes in other affected areas and also Open Arms  Staff members and their families. On the 3^rdApril we as a group of friends, are extending a usual Wednesday nightquiet drink and a catch up, to friends and friends of friends, in a bid to do something to help this appeal. If you are unable to attend, and you would like to make a donation, we thank you!

Love, Ellie, Kirstin, Kiki, Amy and Emma xx