FDM was contracted to carry out multi-sectoral needs assessment for COVID impacts as an external evaluator. The main objective was to assess the needs of the communities related to COVID-19, linked to migration and monsoon. This assignment will describe the current situation, knowledge, and main issues concerning COVID 19 with the communities in the specified geographic regions. FDM is planning to include multiple sectors aligning with Mercy Corps’ COVID-19 Response Strategy on Program and Policy Analysis, Cash Transfers, Social Protection and Resilient Households, WASH and Behavior Change Communication, Resilient Markets, Social Cohesion and Public Trust. The assignment was specifically inform the priorities for a potential Mercy Corps contribution to the response to COVID-19 and create an evidence-base for advocacy with service providers, coordination networks, donors, and other stakeholders. The assessment helped to understand the current status of community disaster management committees and their consideration of COVID-19 in relation to flood preparedness identifying the needs and capacities to cope with the unprecedented situation.
Donor: Mercy Corps
Study areas: Baitadi, Dadeldhura, Kailali, Kanchanpur, Bardiya, Rautahat, Dhanusha and Sunsari
Tools: Household survey, FGDs, KIIs and Desk review
Sample size: Quantitative: 384, Qualitative: 24 FGDs and 32 KIIs
Duration: September 2020 – November 2020