Day four
Today was so great!
We had the amazing opportunity to spend half of our day with Amarilis at Toldos Pa’ Mi Gente! TPMG helps those in PR who are in need of new roofs. Amarilis explained that for those who don’t have roofs, they also can’t have electricity. Amarilis told us that they originally started by providing tarps to those who weren't being helped by the Government. They then gained enough materials and help to start working with carpenters to build solid roofs to replace tarps and start getting power back to peoples homes because the government was taking too long.
Working with Amarilis was so great! She put us right to work! We deep cleaned and organized their main room to prepare for workshops they will be holding soon that will be centered around teaching carpentry to their volunteers. At their upcoming workshop next week, that have a very special day planned. They were one of 4 PR organizations chosen by the government to have an experienced Technical Engineer come and speak to them. Everyone at TPMG is so excited for this and can’t wait to use everything they learn and put it to good use around the island.
While working, Amarilis started to tell us her story and experience with Hurricane Maria. They told us that her, and her husband, two kids, and her parents, had to lock themselves in a walk in closet for 22 hours while the eye of the hurricane hit the island. She said that it felt like an earthquake was hitting the island because her house was shaking, but it was just the insane winds outside. She then said that they spent about 3 months afterwards without any power, and after 6 months, they finally got running water. I couldn’t image having to live through that. Then while working, a woman and her baby came in to ask about getting assistance from TPMG. She told Amarilis that she still didn’t have power in her house because her house was handed down to her from her grandparents, and technically wasn’t really her house, so the Government refused to help her. She said they had tried lawyers, going to the press, but nothing was working, which is what led her to TPMG. Now, because of the amazing things that TPMG does, this woman and her family can finally get help. This is a huge shoutout to Amarilis for sharing her story with us, and for all the work she does.
Please click below to learn more about TPMG, or make a donation! And if you’re ever on the island, and feel like giving back to it, please reach out to TPMG!
On the planner for tomorrow
Mini Old San Juan trip. Then mixing class at the Bacardi Factory!