Following the devastating 6.3 magnitude earthquake in Herat, at the outset of the response, Save the Children provided Multi-Purpose Cash Assistance (MPC) to 850 families, with support of 350 USD (5817.46AFN) through (Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency) Rapid Response Mechanism SIDA RRM and the Humanitarian Fund. Additionally, we established six Child-Friendly Centers. These centers are crucial in providing psychosocial support to 578 children affected by the earthquake, including 302 girls and 276 boys.

Now, amidst the harsh winter in Herat, Save the Children distributed Cash for Winterization. This effort had a tangible impact, reaching 560 households across 7 districts and 21 villages. Each family received 200 USD (approximately 13750 AFN), enabling them to procure essential supplies to endure the challenging aftermath of the earthquake. The initiative aims to empower families to acquire winterization items such as blankets, warm clothing for their children, and heating materials to endure harsh post-disaster conditions.  

Save the Children's Cash for Winterization distribution is a lifeline for families grappling with the aftermath of the earthquake in Herat. By providing both material assistance and crucial psychosocial support services, Save the Children is meeting immediate needs and empowering communities to rebuild with resilience and hope for a better future.

“The earthquake has affected my family badly due to the cracks in our house; we are forced to shelter under the tent. Which is very cold at this point in winter.”

"Ireceived cash support from Save the Children. It was one month ago that I received 26,000 AFN ($340) in cash assistance from Save the Children, with which I bought food, fuel, blankets, and warm clothing for my children. This week, we received another cash assistance of 13,750 AFN ($200), which I am going to use to buy fuel to keep my children warm. I thank Save the Children for their aid. The winter is very harsh here, and without their support, it would have been tough."