Day three for the Des Moines Christian School team brought about many events, sights, and stories that they hope to never forget. This experience was heartbreaking but also a reminder of God’s love and protection for His people.
Our day began taking in the beautiful sunrise and finding a moment of peace to appreciate God’s creation. After gazing out across the sea and taking in the glorious colors of the sunrise, our day began. First, we traveled to Driftwood Farms, a hydroponic farm. Years ago, farming took a sharp decline, and agriculture was significantly abandoned for the tourism industry. Driftwood Farms was formed to educate Aboconians about farming and provide fresh produce to the island. Upon arriving at the farm, we were welcomed with open arms by Tracy and her family. While there, we served by harvesting, deconstructing greenhouses, and collecting eggs and guava. The hard work in the sun helped us appreciate the tremendous hours and efforts that Tracy and her family constantly give to support the community in Abaco. Our hard work was also rewarded with fresh produce which we ate at lunch. We tried many different kinds of produce such as lettuce, fresh coconut water and jelly, mulberries, guava, and passion fruit.
Our day continued as we headed to the local church to begin food distribution to locals. Beforehand, we packed and prepared bags that were full of non-perishable food items and water. We split up into two groups and headed to the different communities along Marsh Harbour. One group visited a mother and daughter who had been significantly impacted by Hurricane Dorian and were still recovering from the losses. They shared their difficulties and hardships throughout the storm such as trudging through seven-foot water, seeking shelter for days, and the loss of family members. Despite their tragedies, the women were extremely thankful to God and His provision for their lives. We visited three other families who had similar traumas and hardships, but each family felt blessed by the food and company that we provided.
The other group visited and provided food aid for four more families on the island. First, we met a woman and longtime resident of Abaco who shared more memories of Hurricane Dorian. She continually expressed how grateful she was for her roof and the safety of her family. She was proud of her story and how she helped her neighbors weather the storm. She helped us appreciate our situation and put our privilege into perspective. We were in awe of her perseverance and even if we only were with her for a short time, she will continue to be in our prayers and minds. We continued to deliver food packages to more individuals who shared similar experiences of pain but with steadfast faith in God. Their unwavering joy throughout all circumstances was a challenge for us to continue to find hope even in our darkest days.
As we traveled home, we witnessed the remnants of a destroyed shantytown where a mostly Haitian community had recently lived. In late February, the Government came in and demolished the homes after tagging the homes for demolition earlier in the month. Laura shared a few stories of the individuals she knew who had lived in the community. Upon looking at the devastation, our hearts broke for the traumas that had occurred. However, as we continued to drive, a rainbow appeared, displaying God’s love and protection over His creation. This reminded us that no matter the circumstances and devastations that we endure, God will protect and care for us.
–Liza, Kiersten, and Meg
