Cox’s Bazar Correspondent: ISDE Bangladesh has provided food assistance to 1,000 underprivileged and low-income families across two coastal unions of Chakaria Upazila. The distribution was held over two days, with 500 families receiving aid in each union.

On Monday, June 8, the program took place at Shaharbil Union Parishad premises in Ward 11. On Tuesday, June 9, a similar event was held at Dhemushia Union Parishad premises in Ward 15. The initiative is funded by Saudi Arabia’s King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre and implemented by ISDE Bangladesh.

Organizers said the program targets poor, unemployed, and disaster-vulnerable households in coastal areas who are struggling due to rising prices of essentials and limited income.

At the Dhemushia Union event, Panel Chairman Zahirul Islam, former Chairman Nurul Alam Jiku, Union Parishad Secretary Humayun Ahmed, journalist Riduwan Hafiz, UP members Abul Hashem from Ward 2 and Rezaul Karim from Ward 4, and reserved women member Munni Akter covering Wards 4, 5, and 6 were present.

At Shaharbil Union, Administrative Officer Faisal Uddin Ahmed and Union Parishad members attended the distribution.

Representing ISDE Bangladesh were Program Coordinator Jahangir Alam, Upazila Manager Jalal Uddin, Project Officer Taj Uddin, and Project Officer Supom Barua.

Speakers said many coastal families still face serious economic challenges. Humanitarian programs like this not only ensure food security but also restore confidence and relief among communities.

Dhemushia Union Panel Chairman Zahirul Islam said, “Programs like this for the poor and helpless at the local level are very important. Many families will benefit significantly from this support.”

Shaharbil Union Administrative Officer Faisal Uddin Ahmed added, “Food packages were distributed fairly and transparently according to the beneficiary list. Such activities strengthen social solidarity and the spirit of cooperation.”

ISDE Bangladesh Program Coordinator Jahangir Alam said the organization has been running continuous humanitarian work in remote and disaster-prone areas of Cox’s Bazar. With help from local administration and public representatives, aid is reaching the real beneficiaries.

“Each family received a food package containing 10 kg rice, 7 kg lentils, 3 kg sugar, 1 kg salt, and 3 liters of soybean oil,” he said. “Through this program we are helping ensure food security for disadvantaged families.”

Recipients welcomed the support. Abdul Karim, a resident of Shaharbil, said, “Daily wage work is not always available. Getting these food items lets my family breathe a little easier.”

Other beneficiaries said household costs have risen sharply, and the aid has brought major relief.

ISDE Bangladesh reported that before this, it had distributed food assistance to 35,525 beneficiaries in remote host communities and Rohingya refugee camps. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to stand beside coastal and marginalized communities through ongoing humanitarian efforts.