JURNALPOST – Hundreds of families affected by the earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), continue to face significant challenges in meeting their daily needs. Beyond the loss of their homes, many residents, including mothers and infants who require special attention during the post-disaster recovery period, are living in shelters with limited facilities.
The earthquake that struck Flores in mid-August 2026 reportedly impacted more than 40 thousand people, according to data from the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) as of 17 September 2026.
Structural damage to homes, trauma, and fears of aftershocks have left many families afraid to return to their residences. Some remain in evacuation tents, while others are temporarily staying with relatives or neighbors.
In response to these conditions, Muslim Aid Australia, in collaboration with Insan Bumi Mandiri (IBM), has distributed 370 emergency relief packages specifically designed to meet the needs of mothers and infants affected by the Flores earthquake.
Aid Reaches Five Locations in NTT
The distribution took place from October 15 to 21, 2026, targeting five locations across two regencies in East Nusa Tenggara.
The distribution sites included Mbay Village 1 and Tonggurambang Village in Nagekeo Regency, as well as Kampung Terang, Kampung Bajo, and the Lembor District area in West Manggarai Regency.
Through this partnership, Muslim Aid Australia provided humanitarian support with Insan Bumi Mandiri serving as the implementing partner on the ground.
A total of 370 aid packages were distributed to affected families to help alleviate their burden during the recovery period.
The assistance provided not only addresses the general needs of evacuees but also accounts for the specific requirements of mothers and children who need specialized supplies for their daily activities.
Blankets, Lactation Milk, and Baby Supplies
Each aid package contains essential items tailored to the needs of the beneficiaries.
For mothers, the assistance includes blankets, lactation milk, and sanitary pads. Meanwhile, supplies for infants and children consist of diapers, eucalyptus oil, toothbrushes, children's toothpaste, baby soap, and playmats or playmats.
These supplies are intended to help families maintain hygiene, comfort, and the health of mothers and children while staying in evacuation centers.
The inadequate conditions of temporary shelters present a significant challenge, particularly for families with infants and young children.
Limited space, temperature fluctuations between day and night, and difficulty in obtaining daily necessities make basic relief supplies invaluable to the survivors.
Residents Express Gratitude for Support During Evacuation
Darasiva, a resident of Dusun Terang and one of the aid recipients, described the difficulties she and her children have faced while living in an evacuation tent.
According to her, the temporary living conditions have forced the family to adapt to various limitations, including coping with temperature changes and a lack of household supplies.
“Living in a tent has been difficult for me and my children; it is freezing at night and sweltering during the day. This assistance is very beneficial as it helps with our daily needs,” said Darasiva.
She also expressed her gratitude to the parties who provided aid to her family and other affected community members.
“Thank you very much. May everyone who provided this aid be blessed with abundant sustenance, long life, and good health,” she said.
For families still in evacuation centers, items such as blankets, baby diapers, and hygiene kits help reduce expenses while fulfilling needs that are difficult to meet in an emergency situation.
Supporting Post-Disaster Family Recovery
This distribution is part of a humanitarian effort to support the people of Flores as they navigate the aftermath of the earthquake.
Muslim Aid Australia and Insan Bumi Mandiri hope this support will assist affected families, particularly vulnerable groups such as mothers, infants, and children.
While basic relief supplies cannot resolve all the problems faced by survivors, the distribution of emergency kits serves as a vital form of support throughout the recovery process.
As the community works to rebuild their lives following the disaster, addressing the needs of mothers and children remains an inseparable part of the humanitarian response.
About Insan Bumi Mandiri
Insan Bumi Mandiri is a philanthropic organization focused on community empowerment, particularly in Indonesia's remote regions.
Established in 2016, the organization reports that it has implemented 1,004 programs reaching more than 163,792 people across various remote areas of Indonesia.
Their programs span several sectors, ranging from transportation access, infrastructure development, and health to education and humanitarian activities.
Through collaboration with various stakeholders, Insan Bumi Mandiri strives to expand the reach of its aid and support communities facing limited access to basic services.
Information regarding the organization's activities and programs can be accessed through its official website at insanbumimandiri.org.
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