ABSTRACT
Post-disaster aid distribution is a critical issue and crucially influences the success of the recovery process. This chapter discusses the aid distribution process had a positive impact on the social capital of the two communities under study. The social capital of affected communities may help to explain the access to aid people have in the post-disaster reconstruction process. Social capital not only reduces damage caused by natural disasters, as E. Yamamura proved in Japan. It also plays an important role in the relief and recovery process in the aftermath of a disaster, even in long term. The chapter shows the interrelations between the distribution of aid and the social capital in the communities of Susulf and Wibuse. Interrelatedness between the aid distribution process after Hurricane Mitch and changes in social capital of affected rural communities can be demonstrated with the data presented. The nature of social capital in a community should be taken into consideration by national and international organizations.
