November 2, 2017

Dear Friends,

In the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, many on the island of Puerto Rico are still in desperate need of help. Their situation is compounded by the fatigue of responding agencies, government and ministries. This is complicated even further by the damage to infrastructure – the recovery of which is impacted by the fact that it’s an island.

An assessment team from Hope Force International (HFI) has just returned from Puerto Rico. Meetings were held with ministry partners to ascertain the most effective and efficient way to offer assistance. Initial assessments have confirmed that there are still large segments of the population with no access to drinking water; even fewer have electricity. These two issues alone constitute the greatest source of stress for most people.

For others, the powerful Category 4 hurricane inflicted damage on homes and property.  The forceful winds, rain and flooding from Maria were particularly damaging to wooden structures and to homes with corrugated roofs. This type of damage allows water to penetrate the home and inflict further loss.

After consulting with partners on the ground, HFI has developed an initiative wherein we will endeavor to alleviate the most immediate felt needs of survivors. This will be achieved in two ways:

Hope Packages:
Designed to provide for essential needs such as clean drinking water, the ability to charge phones, provide light and a fan (which will give some reprieve from intense heat – particularly for the elderly.) The inability to communicate with others has been incredibly stressful – but the good news is that in the section of the island where we are focused, the Google Balloon is now working.   In addition, the local officials have also identified a need for personal hygiene kits, particularly for the more difficult access areas.

Hope packages will consist of:

• a small solar rechargeable light that can also charge mobile phones
• a solar fan — especially for the elderly
• a small water purification kit
• hygiene kits

Hope Repair Kit:
The objective is to restore the integrity of compromised roofs, thus preventing further water damage to homes and belongings. This will go a long way to restore peace of mind for survivors. Kits will be comprised of tools and materials needed by affected families to restore their homes to livable conditions.  Exact contents will vary – based on the actual needs of each family – which will be determined by HFI partners on the ground.  Supplies will be given to survivors who will then repair their own homes. It is expected that family and friends will assist with repair efforts.  Where necessary, volunteers will assist the more vulnerable population with repairs.

A standard shelter repair kit is normally comprised of the following tools and materials:

• Corrugated roofing sheets
• 2x4’s
• Plywood
• Nails & screws
• Hand tools

In all instances, HFI will work in collaboration with local partners who will assess the needs of individuals and communities and make recommendations as to specific supplies required to maximize efforts.

Our initial area of focus will be in the western third of the island.

Due to the urgent nature of the need and conditions, HFI will return to Puerto Rico to execute this project before mid-December, 2017.

 

Please consider partnering with us in providing much needed relief to our fellow U.S. citizens in Puerto Rico who need our help!

 

Homes in Isabela County have not yet been inspected by FEMA, and the expectation is that no financial resources will be recieved towards home repairs until (potentially) February, 2018