Caritas Indonesia Hands Over Housing to Flood-Affected Residents in Central Tapanuli
Country: Indonesia Source: Caritas The Caritas Indonesia network has officially handed over permanent housing to residents affected by the flash floods and landslides that struck the Sumatra region in November 2025. The symbolic handover was conducted by the Chairman of the Indonesian Bishops’ Conference (KWI), Msgr. Antonius Subianto Bunjamin, in Lubuk Ampolu Village, Badiri District, Central Tapanuli Regency, on September 16, 2026. Caritas Indonesia handed over 100 completed houses. Additionally, the organization is currently finalizing the construction of approximately 200 more homes. This housing initiative is part of the “Gerakan Rumah Belarasa” (Compassionate Home Movement), a humanitarian initiative spearheaded by the Caritas Indonesia network. This housing assistance is also supported by the Caritas Internationalis network as part of the Emergency Appeal (EA) 23/2025 program. The Caritas Indonesia network has been actively distributing aid to residents affected by the floods in Sumatra that occurred in late November 2025. For assistance within the Diocese of Sibolga, this social outreach is supported by Caritas Diocese of Sibolga and the Capuchin JPIC (Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation) commission. Affected areas in North Sumatra include Sibolga City, Central Tapanuli Regency, and South Tapanuli Regency; approximately 4,900 houses in these areas sustained severe damage. Msgr. Antonius expressed his hope that these units would serve as dignified homes for the affected residents. He also hopes the housing will restore hope to those who lost their homes. “This housing assistance is a tangible expression of the Church’s solidarity and love, present amidst the community’s grief without discrimination,” said Msgr. Antonius. The Caritas Indonesia network remains committed to accompanying the residents, ensuring that the provision of housing is accompanied by the restoration of access to sanitation and healthcare, as well as the strengthening of community capacity. Mgr. Aloysius Sudarso SCJ, Member of the Trustee Board of the Karina KWI Foundation (Caritas Indonesia), expressed hope that the newly handed-over housing would foster community resilience, enabling residents to better withstand future disaster threats. “Gerakan Rumah Belarasa” (Compassionate Housing Movement) initiative is a symbol of compassion and true brotherhood. The spirit of *gotong royong* – mutual cooperation – among the humanitarian network, local government, and the local community was the key factor that made the successful construction of these homes possible,” he said. Meanwhile, the Bishop of Sibolga, Mgr. Fransiskus Tuaman Sasfo Sinaga, stated that the provision of these homes marks a fresh start for the recovery of the affected residents’ lives. “We express our deep gratitude and thanks for the care shown by the entire Caritas network and our benefactors, which has made it possible to provide dignified housing for those affected by the floods,” said Mgr. Fransiskus. Caritas Indonesia Executive Director Father Fredy Rante Taruk explained that the housing construction program aims to restore the lives of residents who lost their homes, ensuring they have access to safe and dignified living quarters. He added that from the emergency response period through to the recovery phase, Caritas Indonesia has served as the coordinator and facilitator of humanitarian efforts on the ground. “We continue to oversee this housing construction to ensure it reaches the intended beneficiaries, meets quality standards, and addresses the actual needs of the affected community,” he said. Through this ongoing synergy, Caritas Indonesia reaffirms its commitment not only to providing physical aid but also to restoring the dignity, hope, and self-reliance of communities affected by flooding in Sumatera. The Caritas Indonesia network, together with the Diocese of Sibolga, will continue to collaborate with local government authorities to oversee the recovery process until all planned housing units are completed. Caritas Indonesia and the Diocese of Sibolga are supporting communities across Sibolga, Central Tapanuli and South Tapanuli, combining emergency relief with long-term recovery. Assistance provided so far includes: More than 100 permanent homes completed, with approximately 200 more under construction, alongside repairs and structural improvements to existing homes. 20 clean water systems serving nearly 10,000 people and eight sanitation facilities benefiting over 2,300 people. Health services and hygiene promotion reaching 1,137 people, and psychosocial support for 449 children. Distribution of 1,231 food packages, 1,000 family kitchen sets, 500 shelter kits and 498 hygiene kits. Together with local communities and authorities, Caritas continues to help families rebuild their lives, regain their independence and strengthen their resilience to future disasters. Article by Caritas Indonesia.
ReliefWeb•Caritas11h ago
