When Tropical Depression Twelve-E slammed into Central America this past October, over 40,000 people faced severe food shortages as their crops, livelihoods and homes were washed away due to landslides and floods. The long and heavy downpours meant that many people who struggle to survive as small-scale farmers were suddenly left with nothing.
“The worst part was that my house was swept away in the landslides,” said Diego, whose wife and three children lost their home. “All of my belongings were carried away and for this reason I am very sad, for the loss of my crops and my home.”
The situation was particularly bleak for families who relied on their crops as their sole source of food. People began selling their few household assets in order to purchase food.
Presbyterians in Canada responded to this crisis through PWS&D, ensuring the delivery of food to those most affected. The much-needed food packages were distributed in December, just prior to Christmas, to 855 families in Guatemala, providing:
- 51.3 tonnes of maize
- 7.7 tonnes of beans
- 6.6 tonnes of incaparina (fortified cereal blend)
- 3.85 tonnes of oil
- 2.2 tonnes of salt
- 2.2 tonnes of sugar.
Each food packages supplied a family with enough food for one month, and they had a dramatic effect. Families that had been left with nothing now have food once again.
“We thank you all and thank God for the help you have given us, because it is a great help,” said Clara, who lost all her crops and was left with a damaged home. She had been struggling to provide food for her husband, son and other relatives.
Bertha, also received food rations. Along with her husband and five children, she farms a small plot of land that normally supplies enough food for the family. However, like many others in her community, they were left empty handed after the heavy rains destroyed their crops.
It is “great what is going on here,” Bertha said. “Here there are so many people that are very poor, that have many kids, so for me I see this as very good. One bag of corn would usually cost 250 quetzals (approximately $32.50 CAD) so this is very helpful for us.”
Thank you for your ongoing support of PWS&D. Your donations ensure there is assistance for people suffering the affects of natural disasters and other emergencies. Please help continue this important work by making a donation to PWS&D today. You can call the office at 1-800-619-7301 ext. 291, donate through your church, mail a cheque or donate online.
This program was supported in partnership with Canadian Foodgrains Bank.
Presbyterian World Service & Development is the development and relief agency of The Presbyterian Church in Canada. Visit the PWS&D Facebook page.
