The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has joined forces with the state of Rio Grande do Sul to establish Humanitarian Reception Centres (CHA) in response to devastating floods that swept the region at the end of April.
These centres aim to provide temporary shelter and support to families who have lost their homes due to the natural disaster.
Over 2.3 million people across 478 municipalities in Rio Grande do Sul were affected by heavy rains, resulting in the displacement of more than 420,000 individuals. Tragically, 176 deaths have been confirmed, with over 30 people still missing.
The first three CHAs, with the initial centre operational since July 4, will collectively accommodate approximately 2,400 people from Porto Alegre and Canoas. Each centre has facilities tailored for adults and children, including sleeping areas, breastfeeding rooms, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) services, laundry facilities, and a cafeteria.
The centres also provide access to public transportation, education, and healthcare services.
Stéphane Rostiaux, IOM Brazil Chief of Mission, affirmed the organization’s commitment: “IOM is a key player in disaster displacement prevention, mitigation, and response. We are collaborating closely with the Government of Rio Grande do Sul to manage these reception centres, ensuring a rights-based approach that leaves no one behind.”
The CHAs will function as temporary shelters while long-term solutions are identified for displaced individuals, encompassing social protection, reconstruction efforts, and government assistance plans.
“The Humanitarian Reception Centres are designed to uphold human dignity and compassion,” remarked Gabriel Souza, Vice-Governor of Rio Grande do Sul and project coordinator. “We have established essential facilities to address the primary needs of affected families, leveraging IOM’s extensive experience in operating such centres.”
This initiative aligns with IOM’s global strategy and leadership role within the Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) Group on Coordination and Management of Shelter in Disaster Displacement. The organization aims to ensure that flood-affected individuals receive life-saving aid and are accommodated in safe, dignified environments with adequate amenities.
The project is made possible through collaborative efforts with Fecomercio/Sesc/Senac, the Brazilian Federation of Trade in Goods, Services and Tourism, whose support is integral to the success of this humanitarian action.