Thousands of families in Pakistan’s Swat Valley remain away from their homes and communities following fighting between the Pakistan army and insurgents earlier this year. For those not fortunate enough to be staying with family or friends, life can be very grim, especially as winter sets in.

IRD assembled 680 kits of supplies to be given to the most vulnerable of these families, such as those headed by women, those in hard to reach areas, or those with no other means of support. Each kit contains quilts, hygiene supplies, shoes, and school supplies. A total of 6,120 people are expected to benefit from them.

IRD’s local partner, Sarhad Rural Support Program, met with local elders to decide which families should receive the kits, which were then distributed on November 20 and 23 to very grateful families. “People were very surprised and happy about the support,” said Sajjad Imran, IRD Pakistan Country Director.