Hi everyone,
We have returned to Chillan to gather another load of supplies to take to the coast. Our first trip out there felt successful. We basically just loaded El Furgon with supplies that we anticipated or heard might be useful--water, milk, rice, cooking oil, cleaning supplies, carrots, onions, potatoes, matches, toilet paper, etc.--and drove around the rural areas south of the town of Cobquecura visiting camps and offering what we had.
What we found was that the homes built of brick (home-made brick) have been badly damaged, and families who lived in them have had to evacuate. Many families are tent-camping in fields or yards of family members. Each camp is marked with a flag, and most have signs that say the family name and the number of people staying there. I suppose this is to help people who are bringing aid. We have been impressed by the mobilization of Chileans to help their people. Trucks loaded with supplies are heading out to the coast all the time, but some areas & towns are definitely receiving more than others. This is one reason it felt great to help in outlying rural areas, because the small towns along the coast seem to have received more help.
What is good news is that the area we have been in was not further devastated by the tidal wave which followed the earthquake in other parts of the coast. I haven´t quite figured out the reason for this, but it is clear that the water did not reach the coastal homes. Still, it is/was at the epicenter, so there was a lot of damage from the quake itself.
The people we have encountered have been gracious--always only taking what they need, and pointing the way to another family, in another camp farther down the road who need it more than they do. They have been grateful and respectably proud. Their beauty, strength, and resiliance are evidence that they will persevere. It is inspiring.
The current concern is that there is rain in the forecast and the camps are very exposed to the elements. After this, we will head to the hardware stores looking for plastic sheeting, tarps, nails, etc. to help people build temporary shelters. This is what they are asking for, so we are trying our best to help make it happen.
I am having trouble with the photos right now, so they will have to wait.
We will be in touch next chance we get.
Thank you for all of your thoughts.
Jessica & Ryan
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Jess and Ryan:
ReplyDeleteWe have been watching the blog closely for news and clues regarding your activities. Hats off to you both. I wish we could do more than just send good wishes. Any suggestions? How are you financing the help you are offering?
Love,
Dad and Judy
Beautiful souls,
ReplyDeleteYou thought you were going to Chile to SURF, and now you find yourselves in a position to truly SERVE. :) The people there are very blessed to have you giving to them from your hearts and your resources.
It is quite amazing to witness yet again how we can have a plan for our lives, and then some twist or turn or 'quake' leads us in a whole other direction. The most powerful thing we can do is flow with the changes and bring the best of ourselves to WHAT IS. That is exactly what I see you two doing and it doesn't surprise me at all, because you are both incredible human beings.
Our loving thoughts and highest energies are being sent to you to help you as you live each day in service. It is so beautiful as well to learn how the Chilean people are receiving so graciously - thinking not just of themselves, but of how to best share the aid with others.
Keep up the Good Work! We would love to see you again soon...
We love you!
Lori and Francesco
xo
Dearest sweet ones,
ReplyDeleteYou are on our minds and in our hearts. Thanks so much for keeping us up on your journey. What a wonderful opportunity you hve been given. Knowing you as I do you will be resourceful, imanginative,and giving. sSpeaking of giving can we make a deposit in your checking account or is there a better way to help you with your efforts. I am sure you are a breath of fresh air for all who need your help, smiles and friendship.
Update from home. Kimmy is getting very ready. This is her last week of work and she can't wait.
I was up helping out as she is having trouble getting around, so full of baby. Give her a call if you can she is really missing you. Car seat is in the car, bag is packed, hospital tour done,and bag is packed. They had a good time at Sun River with Bob and Sarah last weekend. We are finally geting some good late snow.
They send their love and their support for you and the work you ae doing.
Love you two. Does LJ have a phone so we can let you know about Kimmy's labor, and the baby's birth. All for now sweet ones. Keep up your good work we send our love and support.
Love, Mom