Adventists help the Brac

(CNS): Local Relief Agency Provides Essential Supportany residents on Cayman Brac and Little Cayman have received emergency supplies and assistance from the local chapter of the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), following the devastating effects of Hurricane Paloma. (Left: ADRA members Tara Walton and Eric McFarlane)

According to a release from the Hazard Management Cayman Islands’ Joint Communications Service, the relief agency, in conjunction with the public and private sector, has provided more than 24,000 food and perishable items to all residents, including bread, water, toothpaste, toothbrushes, tarps, lanterns, female hygiene supplies, pampers, baby food, assorted clothing, mops, brooms, bleach, soap and children’s toys. They are now distributing items such as tarps and cleaning supplies, in order to assist residents with recovery efforts.

ADRA’s Associate Director Dean Evans noted that as of last week, there were 30 members from the Seventh-day Adventist Church assisting in the Brac, the majority being locals. “Our support capabilities range from distribution of supplies, to home repairs; cleaning; grief counselling; and chainsaw teams. We are here to assist anyone who requires assistance during this difficult time,” he said. (Right ADRA in Spot Bay)

On 10 November, two days after Paloma passed, the agency set up three distribution points – at Aston Rutty Centre, and Spot Bay and in Little Cayman. With the demand for relief supplies largely met, ADRA is now focusing on the recovery phase, which consists of building repairs and cleanup. However, they are still offering food supplies to those who need them.

Evans also noted that the agency donated 500 Thanksgiving dinners on Thursday, 27 November, in Cayman Brac. “We welcome this opportunity to help people feel that someone remembers them. There is a lot we should be thankful for,” he said.

The Cayman Brac and Little Cayman communities have acknowledged ADRA’s willingness and enthusiasm to assist, and have expressed their thanks towards the members who continue to work tirelessly to provide much-needed aid to both islands.

Evans, who is spearheading this relief effort in Cayman Brac with support from local ADRA Director Benny Moore, added, “We are pleased with the progress to date, and happy to work with government’s Hazard Management Cayman Islands to provide what relief was needed. For me personally, the best part of each day in the Brac is knowing that what we’ve achieved is contributing to residents’ recovery.”