Although it is usually a day devoted to promoting peace by observing 24 hours cease-fire and non-violence, this year, the United Nations called on communities globally to work together to fight a new common enemy – COVID-19.

The spread of coronavirus threatens the health, security and way of life of every individual and community. It has changed our world, reminding us what happens in one part of the planet can impact people everywhere.

With your generous support, Caritas Australia is continuing to spread compassion, kindness and hope in the face of the pandemic.

Working with our local partners, we are contributing to peace-building and reconciliation programs worldwide, including:

Bangladesh - Sustainable Livelihoods for Indigenous Communities in Dinajpur (SLPID)

With your support, Caritas Australia, with its local partner, Caritas Bangladesh, is working to improve the lives of Bangladesh’s most marginalised indigenous people - increasing food security, improve livelihoods, and strengthen traditional community ties.

Achievements:

• Over 8,600 participants (around 3,400 male, 5,200 female) have taken part in training sessions on livestock-rearing and aquaculture.
• Over 1,280 women have participated in the “Handful of Rice Groups” in 60 villages, providing them with some financial stability.
• This program has already reached 60 Traditional Social Organisations (TSO) in Bangladesh. TSOs help to preserve traditional cultural and environmental practices which fosters a sense of belonging.
• 60 TSOs have been empowered to access government social safety net schemes.
• Distributed masks, hygiene kits, shared preventive health messages and conducted awareness-raising activities on COVID-19 prevention.
• As part of the COVID-19 response, TSOs have assisted in distributing food supplies to around 840 vulnerable households, including families living with a disability, the elderly, widows and landless farmers.

Fact: So far, up until June 2020 program, has directly helped nearly 3,000 people, including 15 people living with a disability.

DRC - Protection and Re-Integration of Ex-Combatants in the Diocese of Bukavu

With your generous support, Caritas Australia, with its local partner, Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD), Caritas Bukavu, is helping ex-combatants to transition from military to civilian life - through sustainable livelihoods, civilian peace-building, conflict prevention, and resolution.

Achievements:

• Over 1900 people trained in sustainable agricultural practices to improve harvests.
• Vulnerable communities helped to set up savings groups to create their own businesses.
• 12 sustainable small enterprises created.
• Ex-combatants work together with village members on advocacy activities, contributing to stronger social cohesion.
• Distributed masks, hygiene kits, shared preventive health messages and conducted training sessions during COVID-19 pandemic.

Fact: This program has so far benefitted over 30,000 people

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