Ever since the GLOF (Glacial Lake Outburst Flood) occurred, GFF Helps has been providing unceasing assistance to the victims. One of the hardest-hit regions is the Teesta Valley, where many people have been displaced and are currently living in rehabilitation camps. This time GFF Helps India decided to host an art therapy workshop at Teesta Primary School on November 9th. Miss Aachal Agarwal, a full-time artist with experience working with numerous government departments, served as the resource person for the day. We had previously worked with her at the Pudung SOGG Learning and Information Center, where we had performed the identical session. The young kids were taught coloring and line drawing, which is supposed to improve focus and concentration. Through mixing the vivid hues, the kids encountered the restorative quality that art bestows. The children were able to feel delight and let go of their despair during such trying moments.

India celebrates its Childrens Day on the occasion of our first Prime Minister Jawarhal Lal Nehrus’s birthday on 14th of November. He was affectionately known by kids as “Chacha Nehru,” and he was a strong advocate for providing kids with an adequate education. Children’s Day is observed in India as a way to raise awareness of children’s welfare, rights, and education. This year GFF Helps India hosted the Childrens Day Celebration at all the three SOGG Learning & Information centers in Bong, Chibbo and Pudung, where there are 108 students at present. As the children’s final examinations are approaching soon, we decided to gift them with all the essential stationary set for their exams. As a gesture of respect for one another, all of the learning center teachers gave their students gifts during the joyous Diwali celebrations that were also taking place at the same time.

On October 4, 2023, the South Lhonak glacier in Sikkim saw a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) that destroyed several homes, buildings, people, and animals that were residing along the banks of the Teesta River. Helping those affected by the GLOF, SOGG Saichik Welfare Society and GFF Helps have been visiting all affected locations on a regular basis. On 18th of November SOGG Saichik Welfare Society distributed relief materials to the Church Jiwit Jal Upasnalaya and the Samaj Jan Pragatishil, of Bhalu Khola Melli. The relief items contained silverwares, gas burners, chairs, spoons, serving spoons, steel glasses and pressure cookers. GFF Helps India Local Representative Surabhi Subba volunteered in this GLOF Relief distribution drive. All the members of SOGG Saichik welfare society along with our Project Director, Mr. Saom Namch were also present. The residents of Bhalu Khola, Melli, were very happy to receive all the donated supplies, thanking everyone who helped them at this critical time.