Yellow dot org

Have you read our report yet? Over the past months Yellowdot Community alongside Ability for Action, We for Rights and ORHAN, have been listening closely to Persons with Disabilities and their families across the Northern, Central, Uva and Western Provinces following the impact of Cyclone Ditwah. Through our rapid assessment, 150 households shared their experiences, which is at the heart of everything we do under this programme. The assessment was conducted across four provinces selected on the basis of cyclone impact severity: Central, Northern, Uva, and Western Provinces. Across the full sample, the gender composition was predominantly male (62.6%), 36% female and 2% identifying as nonbinary.
The disability profile of the respondents reflected the full range of disability experiences, with physical and mobility impairments the most prevalent category across all provinces at 40.3%. Multiple disabilities is defined as the co-occurrence of two or more disability types, and this was reported by 29.5% of respondents that is nearly one in three, which means that a substantial share of the households surveyed were not navigating a single, clearly defined disability need, but a convergence of physical, cognitive, sensory, and health-related challenges that interact with each other and with the post-disaster environment in complex ways.

The findings across four provinces are clear: PwDs were among the most exposed, the least warned, and the least served in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah. These are not incidental failures, but are the predictable outcomes of systems not designed with PwDs in mind. This report documents what happened, why it happened, and what must change.Want to partner with us, fund us, or collaborate?
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In Central and Uva , families faced floodwaters and landslides. Persons with disabilities shared how dangerous it was to evacuate without accessible shelters or proper early warnings.

Across the community, families are navigating damaged homes, interrupted livelihoods, health needs, and the daily realities of living with a disability in our current system. Temporary shelters are still remaining to be the only place they can be at. Basic supplies are still out of reach. Income is uncertain. Access to medical care and assistive devices remains fragile.

Yet what stands out most is their determination, to work, to rebuild, to educate children, to live safely, and to be seen and supported fairly.

From our conversations, we believe real recovery means listening carefully, responding accurately, and ensuring support reaches the right person at the right time. It means moving beyond promises and creating systems that are protects them from harm now and in the future while being practical and rooted in dignity.

“There were no warnings because no one expected this level of damage. Our house is cracked, and power cuts made it very difficult to manage medical treatment. We also need proper equipment for a separate, usable toilet.”

"We need assistive devices like wheelchairs, walking sticks, hearing aids, and medical supplies to live independently. Medical care, oxygen, and regular medication are critical for us. Access to health services must be easier."

"Instead of general aid, organisations should ask about each person’s situation and provide support based on real needs. Persons with disabilities are often called a priority, but in reality they do not receive the right support."

"Our children’s education is important, but without stable housing and income, it becomes very difficult to support them. Honestly, We only want opportunities, proper attention from authorities, and the chance to live with dignity."

"I want to restart my livelihood, but I don’t have materials or equipment. With a little support, I could earn an income again. Right now, Every day is a struggle to meet even our basic needs."