There is something really special about Faith and Joy — Fe Y Allegria (in Spanish) – near the coast of Ecuador. This very new barrio was formed just 5 months ago by residents who lost their homes during the pandemic. They built crude bamboo huts in an abandoned dump, but authorities did not recognize their right to be there so destroyed most of the first structures….keeping the materials for themselves. These determined people rebuilt and have added one light-pole, brought water in through a hose and are planting a garden. They are determined their new community will be one of Faith and Joy.
So it was truly a JOY to bring a mini wellness training to them on November 29. Our AAI team shared the information from the AAI/ISA Wellness Manual while the children quietly colored under the shade of a couple tarps we put up. While they laughed at my poor spanish, it was evident they enjoyed and appreciated the presentation. Each attendee was given the manual, sanitizer, a mask and best of all, a food package of rice, lentils, plantains and cooking oil.
AAI is currently trying to fund pose-septics bathrooms for the neighboring barrio of San Raymundo. If we can raise enough funds, we would also like to give them to Fe y Allegria because a clean village is a healthy village….and these people truly understand and appreciate having the chance to have a safe, healthy home. Below is the Ecuador bracelet representing this project!
