DONATE TODAY TO BRING RELIEF TO VICTIMS OF CYCLONE THANE in Southeast India.  All funds raised go to the same grassroots organizations that AUP students help during our practicum.  All are working with locals directly affected by the storm.

On December 30th the “worst storm in decades” leveled homes, shops, roads and forests in Pondicherry, Auroville and nearby villages. The Indian government has confirmed almost 50 deaths and more than 20,000 people evacuated. The AUP students participating in the Sustainable Development Practicum were on the ground during the storm and have quickly changed gears to aid in immediate and long-term relief efforts. We need your help.

Cyclone Thane Aftermath from Pushan BC on Vimeo.

The AUP Students are collecting funds with Auroville International USA to bring much-needed aid directly to our partner serving local communities. These are small organizations working directly with communities hit by Cyclone Thane. Based in and around Auroville the fund will serve to:

• Offer safe environments to orphans and children from single parent families
• Rebuild artisan centers, which provide livelihood and training for villagers
• Replenish natural forests after the destruction of nearly 1.5 million trees in an area vulnerable to erosion.

Give now to support AUP’s effort and reach those desperately in need of help in rebuilding and moving on.  Funds donated through AUP and Auroville International USA go specifically to the organizations that participate in the AUP Sustainable Development Practicum and are working directly with local communities hit by the cyclone.

The AUP Sustainable Development Practicum and our partners would like to say thank you for your support.

With any gift of $50 or more you will receive a handcrafted soap from the Bamboo Research Center

With any gift of $100 or more you will receive 100g of coffee from Marc’s Coffee

About these organizations:

Bamboo Research Center – Bamboo produces 35 percent more oxygen than trees and is one of the fastest growing plants on earth. The Auroville Bamboo Research Center promotes sustainability, empowerment and education through the use of bamboo as a resource for building materials, furniture, instruments, jewelry, fabric and even food. The center employs local villagers and hosts workshops with women’s groups to provide training in bamboo basketry and jewelry design. This soap was handmade in Auroville from all-natural products.

Marc’s Coffee – A local Auroville micro-roaster, Marc Tormo buys only from farmers who grow their beans within the rainforests of India, infusing the coffee with the flavors of neighboring fruit and nut trees. This one bag helps to promote sustainable production methods, the ecological well being of forests, and workers and farmers who are paid fairly for their dedication to a unique coffee experience.