MAY UPDATE Responding to New Community Needs

Back in March, as the COVID-19 crisis was just beginning to unfold, Amigos made the decision to purchase a large reserve of corn, beans and rice for the communities of Santa Cruz. This large-scale food purchase was a first for our organization, but we felt it would be an important protection in the likely event of future food shortages or price increases. At that time we calculated holding only a small portion of this food supply to donate to the most needy individuals and families in Santa Cruz. Now, three months later, the list of families in need is growing exponentially. As the virus inches closer to our community, and more and more people are out of work, the needs are growing with each day. This is the new reality in Santa Cruz, and Amigos staff and programs are staying flexible in order to respond. We are providing emergency relief to keep the community afloat while also continuing to work toward our mission of education and empowerment whenever possible. Below is an update on our most recent activities.

Food Baskets for Those Most in Need Ensuring food security is a top priority. We are determined to make sure that no one goes hungry, despite the current economic crisis. While some government aid is expected, it is slow to arrive. Amigos is coordinating with other municipal institutions to ensure that all individuals and families in need receive baskets of basic food staples. Our efforts focused at first on the elderly, widows and single mothers, those hit first and hardest during hard economic times. But the list continues to grow as more people are out of work, and we are determined to ensure that no one is left behind.

Keeping Our Eye on the Prize - Delivering Books to Read at Home Each week, Amigos' Early Education Team continues going house to house to deliver a fresh supply of books and educational activities. We are delighted to see that the advances made in education and reading are paying off, that these children's love for reading endures despite being out of school. Even when in crisis mode, we must continue to invest in children's education. They are the future leaders of Santa Cruz.

Municipal Projects That Put People to Work Amigos' Economic Revitalization Program launched this month, aiming to put as many people to work in Santa Cruz as possible. The goal is to provide income through projects that help to improve the community, such as fixing roads and walkways, improving tourism infrastructure, and reforestation. So far, 24 projects are currently underway that will provide work to over 120 people.

amigosdesantacruz.org info@amigosdensantacruz.org

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