Puerto Rico:
Carlos' and Camila's StoryCarlos and Camila's lives were forever changed when Hurricane Maria ravaged their beloved land and claimed the lives of over 3,000 Puerto Ricans. Their family home, once a sanctuary of comfort and security, lay in ruins, torn apart by the merciless winds and relentless rain. The aftermath left them in a desperate situation, trapped in the clutches of poverty and unable to rebuild their shattered lives.
In the face of overwhelming adversity, Carlos and Camila displayed a resilience that defied their circumstances. With no assistance from the struggling economy of their rural village, they resorted to building a makeshift home out of discarded materials and nature's offerings.
Six long years had passed since Hurricane Maria, but the scars it left behind were still painfully visible. The lack of resources, both physical and financial, had rendered the dream of rebuilding their home an unattainable mirage. Carlos, burdened by the weight of responsibility, embarked on a daily pilgrimage—a five-mile journey to the local coffee farm in search of meager earnings to sustain himself and his ailing wife.
The days stretched on, each filled with an enduring struggle for survival. Carlos worked tirelessly, driven by love and a profound desire to provide for his wife. But the meager income he earned was not enough to lift them out of poverty. The threat of malnourishment and illness loomed over their lives, casting a shadow on any glimmers of hope that dared to surface.
Yet, amidst the hardships, Carlos and Camila clung to their resilience and refused to surrender to despair. They found solace and strength in the bonds of their community—a village where the collective spirit refused to be extinguished. Neighbors banded together, sharing whatever they could spare, lending a helping hand in times of need. Together, they formed a support system that nurtured hope and reminded them that they were not alone in their struggles.
* Names and pictures have been changed to protect the people we serve.