India

The COVID-19 pandemic hit India particularly hard, with multiple severe waves of increasing cases that took many lives and livelihoods. Though all regions suffered, rural areas in particular were unprepared. Families who lost jobs struggled with food insecurity and unexpected slides into poverty, and many children couldn't access classes remotely when schools closed due to containment measures. Violations of children's rights like child labor and child marriage increased, as kids were orphaned and families couldn't make ends meet during the challenges. On top of the pandemic, natural disasters like a cyclone worsened conditions for many more people. Thanks to strong partnerships throughout India, World Vision reached nearly 5 million people with protective equipment, hygiene supplies, food packets, educational materials, and more. Healthcare centers and hospitals, especially rural ones, received essential supplies, and kids were reached with COVID-19 messaging to make sure they had accurate information about the virus and vaccination. The most vulnerable families are getting resources like livelihood support, and at-risk kids are getting access to mental health support as they face uncertainties and changes.