I went to Valle Hermoso on February 11.
Since early February the area between Matamoros
and Reynosa has been difficult because there have
been and continue to be violent contacts between
gangs associated with the Gulf Cartel. These
drug-related gangs seek to take territory from
their rivals.
With trepidation but a driving need to
go to Valle Hermoso, I set out, crossing at the
Nuevo Progreso Bridge, where the attendant asked
me "Where are you going?" I replied, "With
God's help to Valle Hermoso with walkers, crutches
and a wheelchair for distribution to those in need
of such equipment". He wished me well and after
picking up Fidencio and we drove to Valle Hermoso.
On the way there, one of the tires was punctured
by a spike, a common method of slowing down
pursuit of vehicles by the bad guys. We made it to
a tire repair shop and the tire was quickly
repaired.
At the warehouse shortly after we
unloaded the health equipment, a lady I had never
seen before came to the door to ask if we helped
people. My reply was "Yes, if we can." Cristina
explained that she had two neighbors, one in need
of a walker, a bedside toilet chair, and diapers
and the other, a shower chair. The loving help of
Cristina brought Olga and Margarita to the CUPS
warehouse. Those equally loving CUPS friends who
collect health equipment and supplies for use in
Mexico meant that YES we could help. Olga's broken
walker was replaced and she received some diapers,
and subsequently more came from a Houston friend
for her. We have no shower chairs, or bedside
toilet chairs but as soon as either or both
arrive, they will be given to Olga and
Margarita.
I thank God that my fears were overcome
and CUPS was able to help two ladies with so much
need. This day taught me a lesson that faith can
overcome fear leading to beautiful acts of
love. By the way Cristina returned seeking
help for another neighbor, a senior citizen in
need of adult diapers. I asked Cristina why she
helped. She placed her crossed hands over her
heart and she "this is how God made me." I know
that our US donors would answer in the same way.
Faith, hope and charity - all in action. Thanks be
to God.
Health
and School Supplies
NeededHealth and school supplies are always
needed but especially at this time of year.
Specific needs can be found by clicking on the
Donation Schedule. CUPS supporters provided these
much needed supplies this spring.
- Three rural schools were enriched by
computers, benefiting over 60 students.
- March was Special Education month. It was
celebrated by schools in Valle Hermoso with
lively dances by the students and recognition of
the support given to these schools, including
that of CUPS and our volunteers and the
donations of CUPS' friends.
- Donated Bibles in Spanish come 24 to the
box. In the rural community of La Zacatecana, 22
were given away as ladies of the community also
found clothing for their families from over 7
large bags. What was a "loaf and fishes story"
is how a young mother with twins came late and
still found much appreciated clothing for her
girls and received one of the last Bibles.
- 40 teachers benefited from enrichment
materials, thanks to donations CUPS received,
and the 5 teachers who came to the CUPS
warehouse to select material for delivery to
their teacher colleagues.
- Much good can happen if you "just show up"
embraced by His Love.
Your
continued support through donations is much
appreciated.
