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Dear friends and family,
The whole world has been thrown into the unknown. What an opportunity to trust our Almighty God who knows all.
In Peru, the measures have been draconian. They've closed the airports, the borders, schools, centers, banks and all non-essential businesses. We were forced to close the Youth Homes, Casa Darling and Casa San Juan. There is a forced quarantine in the whole country. If someone is in the streets, they have to show a document demonstrating the reason. (It is very much like it was during those years of terrorism, with shortages, blackouts, closings...)
Some markets, pharmacies and hospitals are still open. That is it.
The military control the streets and the markets to make sure there are no meetings or hoarding. If caught in a meeting of more than 5 you receive a fine. Federal health workers are going house to house taking people's fevers, etc. If someone appears sick, he is physically removed from his house and as a result the whole block is placed on double quarantine with guards until the "ill" person is found negative for COVID-19.
For example, Gregoria's brother, who is her neighbor, had a low fever when MINSA went to his house. He was forcefully taken away; and Gregoria, Vilma and many others you probably know were forcibly put in a guarded quarantine and mandated to wear masks at all times and under no circumstances leave their house.
The government's reasoning is that the Peruvian health system cannot withstand an epidemic; they recognize they are woefully ill prepared. Hospitals do not have the personnel or resources to treat an epidemic.
Sadly, all the people laid off are receiving NO salary.
For example, we wanted to grocery shop for the elderly and/or take them meals; we can't. No one can buy food in bulk even for humanitarian reasons. There is a lot of chaos and fear. May we learn even more deeply how to cast our fears on HIM, who cares.
Some in our family of believers have absolutely no income as a result of the massive layoffs, consequently they are going without food. With the help of our leaders, a list of 84 families was compiled and 45 elderly of those most in need. Cash is the only way these families can be helped, because by rotation only one person from a household can go to the market. Each has to purchase their own supplies and food. We have identified two believers in the market that can help with distribution. If you could donate to help with this effort it would be greatly appreciated!
We pray through it all that people can feel God's compassion and care, receive HIS touch. May HE reign; may many turn to Him in this crisis; may faith grow as a result.
May HE be the one that calms fears and fills hearts with an inexplicable tranquility.
On our knees,
Gina and David
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