In March, Peru experienced its first cyclone in 40 years. Cyclone Yaku caused extreme heat mixed with extreme rain. Cyclone season is typically from December to March, but Peru is projected to continue to receive heavy rain through May, with more storm potential in August. 
 
Cyclone Yaku impacted more than 2,000 homes in northern Peru with severe damage, leaving thousands of people with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Buckner International operates three Buckner Family Hope Center® locations in southern Peru, two in Pamplona and one in Cusco. None of the Buckner programs experienced damage. 
 
“Approximately 65 inactive rivers started flooding areas where homes were built,” shared Claudia Leon, executive director of Buckner Peru. “In addition, approximately 1.5 million children are unable to attend schools due to building and infrastructure damage.”
 
Buckner Peru programs have provided food and support to the people in northern Peru, depleting their current warehouse supplies. 

“Depleting our food and aid resources in Peru means we don’t have the inventory to support our clients in the event of an emergency that impacts them,” Leon continued.
 
While the current impact to Buckner staff and families is minimal, it’s possible conditions may worsen as rains are projected to continue across the country. 
 
The Buckner Center for Humanitarian Aid team quickly responded to the call by rearranging current shipments planned for Peru as well as adding an additional container with supplies. 

In April, staff at the domestic Buckner Center for Humanitarian Aid packed a container with items ranging from clothing, linens, water filters, eyeglasses and totes.
 
“We will continue to monitor the situation in Peru to see if more immediate response is needed, but we want to make sure the staff there is prepared for future emergencies,” said Steve Watson, director of aid and assistance for Buckner Children and Family Services.

See how Buckner is impacting vulnerable children and families in Peru.