Cover photo released by FH. Story photo from ReliefWeb.
Nicaragua (MNN/FH) ― In the wake of Tropical Storm Agatha which swept across Central America on May 29, at least 145 people have been reported dead, and thousands are homeless.
El Salvador and Honduras are in "red alert," while Guatemala is under a "State of Public Calamity."
Neighboring Nicaragua fared somewhat better, but Food for the Hungry (FH) Nicaragua staff member Nathan Sandahl says, "Intense rains caused flooding in the northwest region of the country. In two of the communities that we focus our work in, we had 100 homes which lost their roofing."
These regions of Central America are vulnerable to heavy rains and flooding due to the mountainous terrain. Survivors in these areas are in temporary shelters, and the need for food, water, blankets and clothes remains high.
Heavy rainfall affected more than 1,600 people in Nicaragua. The government got to the worst hit, but "some of the smaller peri-urban regions where we work have not been attended with assistance in repair or anything of that sort."
The FH emergency response unit has provided initial financial help and is working with staff in Nicaragua to determine the most effective response.
"We are planning to respond in coordination with the local leadership and hopefully with some of the churches to provide roofing materials," says Sandahl. "The rains have stopped temporarily, but we are just at the beginning of the rainy season, so a no-response will leave families exposed for the next five months."
Urgent needs are the key to ministry. "As we care for people, doors open to be able to share that there's a God who cares about them as well. In the past, situations like this have provided lots of opportunities to share the love of Christ and share the Gospel message of redemption through Christ."
Food for the Hungry is appealing for help to alleviate the suffering of thousands in Central America, particularly FH communities in Nicaragua. There is an urgent need for temporary shelter, hygiene kits and non-food emergency supplies.
Your prayers and financial gifts will make a difference in the lives of many who are in difficult circumstances right now. Click here for the details.
