A Lifeline for Families in Need
October 30, 2024
After the devastating floods and landslides in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, ADRA has been on the ground, helping communities that were hardest hit. Over two intense days—October 22 and 23—our team distributed cash vouchers in Jablanica, Konjic, Kiseljak/Kreševo, and Fojnica, reaching out to hundreds of families who urgently needed assistance. Bozidar Mihajlovic, Country Director of ADRA in Bosnia and Herzegovina, reports thankfully: “While we originally planned to help 210 families, extra funding allowed us to extend our reach to 353 families in total, delivering much-needed relief during this challenging time.”
How Cash Vouchers are Helping Families Get Back on Their Feet
To make sure we could quickly and effectively support affected families, ADRA coordinated with local Social Work Centers and the Red Cross to distribute cash vouchers worth 150 KM each (around 76 EUR). These vouchers allow families to buy what they need most right now—items that aren’t always covered by standardized aid packages, like fresh food, household supplies, and other essentials.
Here’s the breakdown of the vouchers by area:
- Jablanica: 90 vouchers
- Konjic: 103 vouchers
- Kiseljak/Kreševo: 89 vouchers
- Fojnica: 71 vouchers
Our priority was to reach families who were already struggling before the floods, making sure that the aid got directly to those most in need. Since many people lost their vehicles in the floods and couldn’t make it to the distribution points, our teams went door-to-door to hand out the vouchers personally.
Why Vouchers Were Just the Right Support at This Moment
When the disaster hit, the first wave of help that families received included dry and canned foods along with basic hygiene kits. But as days passed and families moved into temporary accommodations, their needs shifted. They needed fresh produce, ingredients for meals, and items that helped them feel just a bit more normal in these difficult times.
The response to the vouchers was overwhelmingly positive. We saw firsthand how grateful families and Red Cross teams were for this support, which they found practical and adaptable. In Fojnica, for example, where stores are scarce, ADRA went a step further by organizing transportation to help families reach shops where the vouchers could be redeemed.
A Long Road Ahead for the Flood-Impacted Communities
Despite the incredible work by the army, Red Cross, volunteers, and numerous humanitarian organizations, the reality on the ground remains bleak. Tons of mud and debris still cover homes, and entire neighborhoods are eerily empty. Many families are not only without home, but also exhausted, still reeling from the disaster. With winter approaching, the pressure is mounting, and for some, rebuilding won’t be possible—especially those whose homes were destroyed by landslides and can’t be rebuilt.
Beyond the physical toll, there’s a palpable sense of fear and uncertainty. Families worry about what lies ahead, especially as more rain is expected. Many are still in shock, struggling with the reality that they may not be able to return to their homes.
What’s Next for ADRA’s Efforts?
ADRA is working on securing more resources and exploring ways to continue supporting those affected by the floods, especially as the cold weather settles in. The feedback we’ve received from families and partners reaffirms that this type of assistance—flexible, immediate, and practical—has made a real difference.
We’ll you updated on our ongoing efforts to help these families. To everyone who has contributed: Thank you for helping us extend this lifeline when it’s needed most.
