The recent rains in Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil) have unleashed a devastating socio-environmental tragedy, affecting more than 300 municipalities and causing serious damage to infrastructure and human losses. There are more than 200,000 homeless people. Faced with this situation, theCáritas Brasileira network has intensified its efforts in collaboration with local organizations, in the “Seeds of Solidarity Mission: Emergency”, focusing on the rural population and coordinating actions to provide assistance and support to flood victims.

Despite the challenges, Cáritas' response seeks to cover the most urgent needs for shelter, medical care and food for the thousands of displaced people. In addition, hard work is being done to restore basic services, such as the supply of drinking water and electricity in the affected areas, as well as to rebuild damaged infrastructure to facilitate rescue and assistance tasks.

Given the magnitude of the situation, continued and significant support is required, both from the community and from government agencies and other humanitarian organizations. Cáritas is committed to continuing to provide help and support to the affected communities, thus contributing to their recovery and reconstruction process.

Cáritas Latin America and the Caribbean expressed its solidarity and concern regarding this situation, sending a letter support this weekend. In addition, we share the Cáritas Brasileira situation report to report on the actions carried out and the needs identified in the face of this emergency.

(Cover photo: Samuel Cavalli / Diocese of Caixas do Sul)