On March 28, 2025, Myanmar experienced a 7.7 magnitude earthquake (and four aftershocks between 4.5 to 6.6 in magnitude) with its epicentre in Sagaing Region, near to Mandalay, the country's second-largest city. It was the most powerful earthquake to strike Myanmar since 1912, and the second deadliest in Myanmar's modern history. The quake exacerbated the situation in Myanmar, a country already enduring immense suffering for years.

The earthquake's magnitude also impacted neighboring countries, particularly Thailand. Many buildings sustained structural damage, with one collapsing due to the tremors. Fearing further collapses, many residents have been displaced and are unable to return to their homes.

As of 1 April 2025, the earthquake has taken more than 2,000 lives. 

Photos Credit: KMSS -Karuna Myanmar Social Services & Caritas Germany

CHARIS is appealing for SGD 300,000 in support of Caritas Internationalis' national organisations and other partner organisations to provide emergency relief to those affected by the earthquake. Apart from direct donation of funds, where necessary and possible, the donations will be used to purchase supplies and goods for the victims.

** All donations will be used for the objectives stated. Where there remains any excess funds after meeting the needs of this specific crisis or arising from circumstances that prevent us from legally delivering aid to this emergency, the donations will be used for other overseas humanitarian aid and disaster relief efforts of the Archdiocese of Singapore in accordance with the laws and regulations of Singapore.

Caritas Internationalis (CI) is a confederation of over 160 members who are working at the grassroots in almost every country of the world. When a crisis hits, Caritas is already on the ground. Inspired by the Catholic faith, Caritas is the helping hand of the Church - reaching out to the poor, vulnerable, and excluded, regardless of race and religion, to build a world based on justice and fraternal love. CI has its headquarters in Rome, coordinating emergency operations, formulating development policies, and advocating for a better world for everyone. CHARIS and Caritas Singapore are member organisations of Caritas Internationalis.

Read more about CI: https://www.caritas.org/who-we-are/

CHARIS also works with various Humanitarian Partner Organisations to ensure that aid is delivered efficiently and with accountability. Past partners include the Singapore Red Cross, Relief SG, and the Regional HADR Coordination Centre (RHCC).