It was not a good start to 2011 for residents of Bhathena (Udhana) in Surat (Gujarat). A fire in the area started in an adjacent textile paper carton warehouse in the early hours of 7th January. The fire spread because of kerosene oil kept in the neighbouring households. Approximately 30 households were affected by the fire with 15 to 20 houses completely burnt down. Luckily there were no major casualties and only minor injuries caused during evacuation.

Many customers lost their houses and all household items. The branch staff contributed & quickly put together Rs.1000, which they used to buy utensils and other necessary items for distribution in the affected area.

Most of the customers are currently staying with relatives and neighbours.

Taking cognizance of this humanitarian crisis, Ujjivan donated Rs.2000 to each of the affected families. Further, we are rescheduling their loans and also waiving off sundry fees and charges.

The affection and respect shown by the customers was moving. Customers were almost in tears in expressing how much they appreciated the help offered by our branch staffs, which put together nearly Rs.3500, utilized in buying a blanket and few basic utensils for each family.

A touching tale was when one of the customers said, “After losing our home in the fire, no one else, other than their close relatives offered us even a glass of water, whereas staff from Ujjivan treated us as family members and visited us regularly.” CRS Vinay Kahar working in the same area helped them remove garbage from their burnt houses and helped them in reconstructing their houses over the past few days.

Their deep gratitude even at this time of crisis can be gauged from the fact that they did not default on repayment since and affect their loan records since Ujjivan helped them in the time of need. Members in the group who were not affected are willing to take responsibility in repaying the dues.

We are proud of the social commitment shown by staff of Udhana Branch who went beyond the call of duty to help the people we serve.