Some Assistance in Relief Aid Coming In
Today we received more assistance for Rio Indio as word spread that I would be attempting to visit the area on Saturday 25th November. Up to Thursday, they were not allowing anyone into the area except Red Cross workers. Moreover, we could not find any driver who was willing to attempt the journey because of the deplorable conditions of sections of the road. With the heavy rainfall, there is a lot of mud and it makes driving very difficult.
Thankfully, the news was better today. And we received donations from Central Panama Baptist Association, and from churches in the Colon Baptist Association. Their generosity was overwhelming. Several members and I set out to organize the gifts of food and clothing in packages. That way, they are ready for distribution instead of going to share on the spot.
After all that, we ended up with two drivers with pick-up trucks, that operate as Taxis specifically for this kind of terrain. Then a member also agreed to go along with me. So we are all set to go tomorrow, still unsure as to how far we can get. I have been told that we have to use boats to facilitate the distribution on the other side.
I’ve started praying about that one already. I am not sure I am ready to cross a river that is still in spate. Travelling in a canoe on a river with supplies is not a new thing for me. I have done that before in Suriname (going through the rapids at certain points as well). So I am not perturbed by that part, as under normal circumstances that is the ONLY way to access the community anyway. Therefore, I would have to do it sooner or later. I’ll confess that I’d rather it be later. But we’ll see….
We Need Your Help
The pastor of the Baptist church in Rio Indio is one of 6 families in his community, Buenaventura that lost everything. All his possessions have been either washed out of the house or completely destroyed. In Rio Indio proper, 14 families have lost everything. For them and others it is a complete rebuilding process.
We are accepting donations on their behalf – Please contact me for further details at email marvia (at) marviaspanamajournal (dot) com. Otherwise, please send your donations directly to the church. This drive will be going on for a few months as we help with the church and community rebuilding. Thank you for your generosity. Of course, your prayers are also essential. Do not forget to pray for us.
Tomorrow I will update you on our trip.
Peace,
Marvia
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