I am proud to introduce you to a brave member of the Partners family, Plo Htoo. In this message, originally written by Plo Htoo in his native language, he describes a relief mission he took earlier this year to save lives and help people on the run in Burma’s jungles. The fact that he and his team made it through the jungle is a feat in itself. Then to imagine that they hand carried critical food and emergency supplies so that more than one thousand hungry people could eat is almost impossible to believe! And yet every bit is true. Will you please read his letter and for a moment allow yourself to be transported to a world far from yours? We just wanted you to know how much of an impact you are making on the lives of the displaced people of Burma through your support and prayers.

Thank you,

My name is Plo Htoo. I am writing to tell you about a relief mission that I have just returned from. More than 1,000 people had lost their home to the Burma Army.

The moment Partners first heard about the attacks, we sent a relief team straight to the area. The mission took place in Karen State, Burma where Burma Army soldiers are attacking my people.

We hand carried supplies, including rice and medicine. Often this meant hauling supplies on our backs as well as using donkeys. Vehicle access is not possible in this part of Burma. The trek required a 4-day hike into Burma’s jungles.

During my visit, I saw the devastation caused by the Burma Army. I met many people who lost their homes and possessions. I mourned with families whose loved ones had been killed.

On the last night of our hike we rested in a village located in a valley with a cold rocky stream flowing past. We tied up our hammocks and tried to get some rest. However, we were awoken at midnight by gunfire. We quickly packed up and regrouped. We were on our way again in the pitch black night. It was too dangerous to use a flashlight.

After 4 days of walking, we finally reached the beautiful Leh Doh Township where we could start the distributing rice and emergency supplies. When the Burma Army attacks a village, they leave nothing untouched. As the people flee, rice barns, houses and personal belongings are destroyed. Then landmines are placed around the village to stop the people from returning.

We provided critical rice to hungry, homeless villagers. You should have seen the look on their faces when we showed up.

I also saw how Partners is helping villages in Karen State to prepare for possible attacks. One group of villagers I met had accessed hidden supplies of rice that had been stored underground.

It isn’t safe to stay in the same place for too long, so the people move on day after day. Some of the older villagers have trouble walking and need help. I carried one old woman on my back for an entire day. I didn’t mind, she weighed a lot less than my usual rucksack.

Many Blessings,