PORTO ALEGRE, BENTO GONÇALVES, CANOAS E SANTA MARIA – RS
YEAR OF SUPPORT
2024
The Challenge
The end of April and the beginning of May were catastrophic for Rio Grande do Sul due to severe storms. The levels of major rivers surpassed historical marks, causing over 100 deaths, numerous disappearances, and many injuries. The Civil Defense reported thousands of people displaced from their homes, some in shelters and others left homeless. In total, 388 out of 497 municipalities in the state reported some type of problem, affecting over 1.3 million people.
The Project
In response to this event, the Association for Emergency Pedagogy in Brazil, through the project “Hope for Rio Grande do Sul,” went to the site of the tragedy to carry out several actions, such as: an introductory seminar on Emergency Pedagogy and Trauma Pedagogy, supported by the State Department of Education and Municipal Secretariats; and interventions with children, adolescents, educators, and local teachers. During the catastrophe, having trained professionals for victim recovery, such as the Civil Defense and Fire Department, was essential, as well as providing support to those who suffered trauma through stabilizing measures aimed at strengthening resilience, especially in children and youth.
The Impact
Stabilization of traumatic shock
Dilution of trauma
Improvement in sleep quality
Restoration of rhythm
Feelings of well-being and joy
Confidence in life and the future, despite adversities