How a grandmother, a young girl, and one dedicated caseworker found hope after losing everything
When a devastating fire swept through one of the world’s largest refugee camps, a grandmother and granddaughter lost everything. But thanks to your support, they were not alone in starting over.
A fire that changed everything
In March 2023, a fire tore through the refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, destroying hundreds of homes. For Mabeza* and her two-year-old granddaughter Riha*, it happened in an instant.
“When the fire started in my home, we three women were alone. Clasping my granddaughter in my arms, I began walking. All belongings, including clothes, were consumed by the fire. Riha and I escaped with nothing,” recalls Mabeza.
Born in the refugee camp, Riha was just four days old when her parents separated. Since then, her grandmother has been raising her alone. After the fire, a Save the Children case worker named Nabila stepped in to help.
Starting again
Nabila guided the family to a temporary shelter, arranged food and clothing, and contacted camp officials to organise building materials. She even helped collet soil to lay the foundation for their new home.
But Nabila soon noticed something troubling – Riha wasn’t thriving. Without identity documents, they couldn’t access healthcare. Nabila arranged for Riha to receive urgent care through a Save the Children Health Centre, where she began getting the nutrition she needed.
Riha*, 2 playing with her Case Worker Nabila in a counselling room, Bangladesh
A bond built through care
Even after the family rebuilt their home, Nabila kept visiting. She supported Mabeza to learn about hygiene, nutrition, and child protection. They talked about how to keep Riha safe from road accidents and the importance of never leaving her unsupervised. “Had Nabila not assisted her, she would have remained at home and perhaps not survived,” says Mabeza. “I can say that Nabila’s impact on us has been entirely beneficial.”
Standing together in times of crisis
Thanks to generous supports, case workers like Nabila can continue providing critical services – shelter, food, healthcare, and emotional support – to families like Mabeza’s every day.