Rebuilding for a New Beginning

Thirty-year-old Daw Myo Thandar was eight months pregnant when her home was destroyed by the earthquake in Myanmar last March. She lives with her husband, daughter, and elderly parents, all of whom survived, but were left with no safe shelter.

A hardworking farmer and small business owner, Daw Myo had previously expanded her income through VisionFund Myanmar loans, growing seasonal crops and starting a fish, breeding business. The increased income had enabled her to make vital home improvements for her family.

After the earthquake, her home and farm infrastructure were damaged beyond repair. With monsoon rains looming and no electricity, her family took shelter in the fields, relying on food donations.

Shortly after the disaster, VisionFund Myanmar staff visited her village to assess the situation of clients in the most affected areas. She said she felt supported and encouraged by their visit during such a hard time. Soon after, she took a recovery loan of 1,500,000 MMK to start rebuilding her home. “Our priority is a safe home, especially with a baby on the way,” she said.