That Way: 2013

Joel, the babies and I headed down to Cuba once again this past march. Before leaving we collected funds in order to help rebuild his uncle's home after hurricane Sandy. We were overwhelmed with the generosity and genuine concern of our church community, family and friends. In a matter of days, we raised over $2000!

We really didn't know what to expect when we began thinking of fundraising for his uncle's house. As always, God came through and exceeded every expectation!!

We stayed in his uncle's town of Santiago de Cuba for only 2 nights before we took a long 17h drive 'home' to Habana. Santiago is a beautiful town which sadly was torn apart by hurricane Sandy. By the time of our trip though, rebuilding was already underway... After months, the streets were finally cleared of all debris.

As all repairs, restorations and rebuild in Cuba...it will be a long time before all is back to the way it was. The government has not provided much aid and whatever donations of materials received by other provinces and countries are being sold at exorbitant prices. Our pastor in Habana was even telling us how the church collected a truckload of clothing for the Sandy victims. Unfortunately, the truck was intercepted by the police and everything was confiscated and never made it to Santiago.

Joel's uncle is still searching for the steel rods needed to continue the roof. For the moment, thankfully, the excess of funds we received have been used to build temporary tin roofing. Tin roofing makes the home feel like a furnace but at least protects them from the wind and rain. They have completely rebuilt the front wall and the side entrance has been cleaned out of debris and repaired.

We cannot begin to express how grateful Joel's family is as well as how your generosity has blessed them and encouraged us. We are so thankful to all of you. Above all, we are thankful to God, to whom all glory is given!

Here are a few pictures of before and during our trip.... and a few recent renovation pictures sent to us from his uncle. I will post updates as soon as I receive more news from family. :)

Debris from Sandy