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5,000 families in Chakaria, Pekua, and Matamuhuri to receive support under KSrelief fundingCox'sBazar Correspondent:ISDE Bangladesh has distributed food aid to 1,000 flood-affected, low-income, and disadvantaged families in Chakaria Municipality as part of a larger humanitarian initiative to support 5,000 families in Chakaria, Pekua, and Matamuhuri upazilas. The distribution was held on Friday, 17 July, at the premises of Chakaria Korok Bidyapeeth field. The program is funded by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre, KSrelief of Saudi Arabia, and implemented by ISDE Bangladesh.Organizers said the recent floods in Cox’s Bazar left many people homeless and without livelihoods. With rising prices of essential commodities, many low-income families have been struggling with food insecurity. The initiative aims to provide immediate relief to those worst affected.Chakaria and Matamuhuri Upazila Nirbahi Officer Shahin Delwar attended the event as chief guest. Assistant Commissioner (Land) Rupayan Deb was present as special guest. Also present were prominent local figures including politician A.M. Ali Akbar, Shahidul Islam, Sheikh Ahmad, Nasir Uddin, social workers Lion Ziaul Karim and Mansur Alam, and businessman Shamsuddin Titu.From ISDE Bangladesh, Program Coordinator Jahangir Alam, Upazila Manager Jalal Uddin, Project Officer Supam Barua, and Project Officer Taj Uddin were present.UNO Shahin Delwar said humanitarian programs play a vital role for marginalized communities speaking at the event. “Alongside government initiatives, the work of NGOs like this helps strengthen social safety nets. Reaching assistance to the truly affected families is commendable,” he said.Assistant Commissioner Rupayan Deb praised ISDE Bangladesh for ensuring transparency and accountability in the distribution. “Coordinated efforts by government institutions and development organizations can effectively reduce the sufferings of the people,” he said.ISDE Bangladesh Program Coordinator Jahangir Alam said the organization will provide food assistance to 5,000 flood-affected families across Chakaria, Pekua, and Matamuhuri upazilas. “Standing beside disaster-prone and economically vulnerable people is our commitment. With the support of local administration, we are continuously conducting humanitarian programs for both host communities and the Rohingya population. This work will continue in the future,” he said.Each family received a food package containing 10 kg of rice, 7 kg of lentils, 3 liters of soybean oil, 1 kg of sugar, and 1 kg of salt. Organizers said the aid will provide some relief amid soaring prices of daily essentials.“In the current market situation, it’s very difficult to manage food expenses for the family. This support has helped us a lot,” one recipient said. “For people like us with limited income, this kind of food aid is a huge help. It reduces the worry about food for at least a few days,” another added.According to ISDE Bangladesh, the organization has previously distributed food aid to nearly 55,000 beneficiaries in host communities across Cox’s Bazar and in Rohingya refugee camps. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to continue supporting people in humanitarian crises to ensure food security.