In 2021, the COVID-19 pandemic coincided with flood-related disruptions in several tribal hamlets across Kerala. For already vulnerable families, this overlap intensified challenges around food access, education, sanitation, and health safety. Children were among the most affected, facing interrupted schooling, limited access to learning spaces, and heightened health risks.
To respond to these urgent needs, Thanal Trust, with support from Pesticide Action Network India and UST, implemented a Pandemic Emergency Response across affected tribal regions. The intervention focused on immediate relief while maintaining dignity, safety, and continuity of learning during an uncertain period.
The emergency response included:
- 310 emergency food kits distributed to families facing food insecurity
- Study materials provided to around 500 students
- 14 common study centres equipped with basic educational resources
- Fumigation and sanitation support extended to around 250 tribal families to help reduce infection risks
The response covered hamlets such as Kurumbanmoozhi and Manakkayam, where access to services was especially constrained during lockdowns and floods. As the immediate crisis eased, emergency activities were phased out responsibly. Support transitioned back into Thanal’s regular development work , with continued focus on education, livelihood strengthening and long-term community resilience.
What Changed
- Families received immediate food support during livelihood disruptions
- Children were able to continue learning despite school closures
- Shared study spaces were strengthened to support collective learning
- Communities were better equipped to manage health and sanitation risks
Our Approach to CSR Partnerships
Thanal works with CSR partners to co-create community-centred, ecologically responsible initiatives. Each project is designed for long-term relevance, local ownership, and sustainability beyond the funding period.