DFDL Laos helps UXO survivors
to build new lives
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DFDL Laos has donated USD 2,000 to the Quality of Life Association (QLA) to assist unexploded ordnance (UXO) survivors in Xieng Khouang Province, Lao PDR. During the Indochina War, over two million tons of bombs were used in Lao PDR. About 30% did not explode and still threaten people’s lives and livelihoods. Annually there are still 30–50 UXO accidents in Xieng Khouang Province, one of the major battlefields during the war. The human cost of a UXO accident can be huge. Families often do not have the cash to pay for the care and rehabilitation and have to sell land or farm animals to pay for medical treatment. |
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The QLA is a non-profit association whose mission is to provide services to UXO survivors, people with disabilities and UXO-impacted communities. In addition, through the QLA Visitor Center visitors learn about the impact of UXO on people and communities as well as the importance of services to alleviate UXO trauma. Mr. Thoummy Silamphan, the QLA Executive Director, knows how a UXO incident can affect a survivor’s life. He was eight years old when he was injured in a UXO explosion. He also knows how someone can build a new life after an incident, with support from family and assistance such as DFDL is providing. In receiving the donation, Thoummy said “We will use this donation to fund medical treatment costs for people injured by UXO in Xieng Khouang Province. This will be of tremendous assistance to this very vulnerable and needy group of Lao citizens. DFDL has taken a lead in demonstrating the importance and power of Corporate Social Responsibility. The UXO impacted communities of Xieng Khouang are deeply grateful for this commitment.” DFDL Country Director Mr. Brennan Coleman added “DFDL is very pleased to make this donation to support UXO survivors in Xieng Khouang Province. We feel it is important to support local organizations run by, and for, Lao people. The QLA is doing some very critical work and we are glad to help.” To see the article of this CSR activity which was published on the Vientiane Times on 18 March 2013, |
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