21 January 2013: Severe flooding that has affected more than 90,000 people in the Indonesian capital, Jakarta, has left many out in the cold - but with relief supplies now being distributed, residents are feeling a little less chilly.

“Our children did not get cold again last night,” said Sukaesih, 36, mother of a 6-year-old son, from Rawabuaya in West Jakarta.

When the floods struck on Wednesday, Sukaesih and her neighbours sought shelter in a shophouse before moving to a nearby camp for displaced persons.

For the next few days, they went without basic items to keep themselves warm and clean until Sunday when Plan Indonesia delivered blankets and hygiene kits containing items such as soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes and towels.

Working together

Plan Indonesia’s emergency response team has been working with the Indonesian Disaster Management Body, government and other humanitarian organisations to ensure the needs of flood-hit children and their families are met.

“We have delivered relief items to more than 11,000 people in 3 locations: Rawabuaya (West Jakarta), Kebon Baru and Karet Tengsin (South Jakarta),” said Vanda Lengkong, Plan Indonesia’s disaster risk management programme manager.

Health worries

Children’s health is now a major concern in flood-affected areas. Already more than 100 girls and boys are suffering from diarrhoea and some are experiencing respiratory problems, said Peter La Raus, Plan's country director in Indonesia.

“As a child rights organisation, Plan is committed to ensuring that children’s needs are met and protected. Therefore, Plan’s priority is supporting children who have been forced from their homes,” he added.

Find out more about Plan's work in Indonesia