November 12, 2020
*This article was written before a second storm - Hurricane Iota - passed through Honduras on November 17. You can find more information about Hurricane Iota here.
In response to Hurricane Eta's devastating impact on Central America, ASJ is partnering with groups across Honduras in relief and recovery.
(Photos from AP/Reuters)
Last week, Hurricane Eta swept through Central America, leaving behind heartbreaking damage. In Honduras, the resulting landslides, ruined crops, floods, and power outages have affected more than 1.7 million people. All this comes as Honduras is still responding to the economic and health challenges of COVID-19. As our hearts are heavy, we believe this is not a time to turn away, but rather a moment to respond with solidarity and fearless love.
Our Honduran colleagues have led the way in this fearless love, immediately checking in with families that participate in our Peace & Justice, Rescue, and Strong Communities programs and live in high-flooding zones. We’ve learned that 56 families’ (about 300 people) homes were significantly damaged or completely lost during the storm. We are now working with these families to provide food and clothing and plan for future housing.
This is a moment to respond with solidarity and fearless love.
Beyond assisting the families we work with, we are also collaborating with humanitarian groups in the national response. ASJ (formerly known as AJS) and its young adult coalition joined forces with 20 other groups to collect funds and goods for families living in shelters. They were able to use our office space as a drop-off site for hygiene items, baby supplies, clothes, bedding, and food. Their rapid, dedicated labor of love will be delivered throughout San Pedro Sula this week.
Top and bottom left: heavy flooding has threatened lives on Honduras' northern coast, including Honduras' second largest city, San Pedro Sula. Top right: Alejandra (in blue cap), a member of ASJ's young adult coalition, helps lead our response in caring for neighbors. Bottom right: A group of young Hondurans gather in ASJ's office to sort through clothes and supplies for survivors.
As we help care for our neighbors’ immediate needs, ASJ is also focusing on Honduras’ long-term recovery. When Hurricane Mitch passed through Honduras in 1998, we learned that a government's response in the aftermath of a tragedy is crucial for the protection of the vulnerable. Our team of lawyers and policy experts are monitoring the government’s decisions and calling for accountability so that those most affected will not be forgotten in the weeks to come.
Author and philosopher Cornel West once said, “justice is what love looks like in public.” We want this love, not Hurricane Eta, to have the final word in Honduras. Today, you can stand with Hondurans by supporting ongoing hurricane relief efforts, as well as the restoration process. Will you give a gift to support our work in providing hurricane relief and rebuilding Honduras?
