On September 15, 2013, Mexico experienced the most intense rainfall in the country’s history with the onset of Hurricane Manuel that battered the northwest. Within 24 hours, Hurricane Ingrid also struck Mexico’s gulf coast. These two hurricanes left over 150 people dead and caused about six billion dollars in damage.
Both hurricanes triggered extensive flooding and landslides which have washed away entire villages, houses, livestock, crops and infrastructure.
Over 3,000 people have taken refuge in wooded areas above their communities. The most affected states are Guerrero and Chiapas.
According to World Renew’s Director of Disaster Response, Wayne de Jong, “The numerous landslides have meant that many communities are completely cut off and, for many of those affected, their ability to sustain themselves has been destroyed.”
In Tlapa and Chichihualco villages, World Renew supported the efforts of its long-time partner AMEXTRA (The Mexican Association for Rural and Urban Transformation) to meet the urgent, immediate needs of hurricane survivors.
The focus of the response has been on communities with previously existing conditions of extreme poverty. These communities have also not been reached with government assistance.Today, World Renew and AMEXTRA are continuing to provide nutritious food packages, cooking utensils and personal hygiene items to 500 people affected by these storms. Children in affected communities are also participating in recreational workshops sponsored by AMEXTRA.
“These families will receive urgently needed supplies, and their children will return to a routine with structured and fun activities and receive support to process their emotional trauma” explains de Jong.
Please prayerfully consider donating to support World Renew’s hurricane response in these gravely affected and remote areas of Mexico.
