Saving lives in emergencies

When disaster strikes

Disasters have the power to suddenly transform a child's life. Their schools may be destroyed – abruptly ending their education. They may lose their homes and become separated from their families. Health, food and sanitation systems may be a totally destroyed, exposing girls and boys to hunger and disease.

In the chaos after disaster strikes, children are more vulnerable to exploitation, violence, starvation and trauma. These experiences can be different for girls and boys, and yet both can experience similar forms of abuse at different times after a disaster – especially for migrant and refugee childrenon the move.

Our emergency work

Save the Children is a world leader in responding to humanitarian emergencies, and we do whatever it takes to support the hardest-to-reach children affected by disasters around the world.

We provide food and help severely malnourished children get back to a healthier weight. We provide clean water to those in urgent need and to make sure disease doesn't spread. We provide rapid, life-saving healthcare including emergency operations, treatment for killer diseases such as cholera and malaria, and vital vaccinations.

When families have been torn apart during conflict or disasters, we reunite children with their relatives. When homes have been destroyed, we help families set up temporary shelter.

We also set up safe spaces for children so they have somewhere to play, learn and get emotional support to help them cope with what they've been through.

Preparation is key

We know that when it comes to disasters, offence is the best defence. That's why we help communities to plan ahead and develop strategies and policies for not only surviving a disaster but minimising the damage to their homes, their crops, their livestock and their ability to make a living.