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The Red Cross... and ducks?

One innovative way communities used these cash grants was by buying ducks. Ducks are a wonderful example of how the Red Cross is able to help people transform their lives with simple practical ideas.

Q. How do they help?
A. Ducks provide eggs and meat for a family to sell at market, providing an income so they can be self-sufficient.

After Cyclone Sidr, they received a Red Cross cash grant. Mukul and her family no longer need to rely exclusively on fishing – meaning they can choose to live further inland, away from the often treacherous coast, in solid storm-proof shelters constructed by the Red Cross. This also means her husband has more time to spend with his family and improve their lives.

For Mukul, ducks mean a new trade, food for her family and a chance to rebuild their lives.

Q. How much did they cost?
A. In Bangladesh, just £25 purchased ten ducklings along with the material needed to build a home for them.

Ducks are perfect for the rainy climate of south Asia, especially in countries like Bangladesh. But in the rest of the world, people face very different problems.

For instance, £25 in northern Uganda can provide 'mama bags', which can make the difference between life and death for both a mother and her baby during childbirth. In an area where there is no access to midwives or even basic medical equipment, 'mama bags' are packed with essential items, such as disinfectant, sanitary gloves and soap to prevent infection.