On September 1, 2024, residents of Rocinha, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, took part in a service project that helped children, adults, and even pets. The event included a diverse program and a range of free services, providing direct benefits to one of Rio de Janeiro's most iconic communities.

Activities and Awareness

The event, organized by the NGO Comunitá-Rio, started at 10 a.m. with a performance by the Amazonas Pathfinders Club marching band, which brought energy and enthusiasm to the participants. This was followed by a lecture on psychiatric disorders in childhood, led by a team from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), emphasizing the importance of taking care of mental health from an early age.

The event continued with a performance by Coral 180, and the kids had fun with Tio Guto's show. Physical activities were also part of the social action and kept the afternoon going. The event included a Zumba class with instructor Roberta Louise from the Bodytech gym and a functional training class offered by the Pipow Fitness Academy.

The facility provided residents with a range of services. These included medical care such as glucose tests, blood pressure measurements, eye exams, and psychological support. Additionally, residents had access to beauty services, including haircuts, massages, and braiding, as well as legal and accounting advice. The facility also offered care for pets, with veterinarians providing baths and grooming.

Social Action

Gabriela Marques, responsible for the Comunitá-Rio project, expressed her gratitude and faith in the work developed by the NGO (non-government organization). "The project exists because God wants it to exist. Without the support of our Lord Jesus Christ, the project would have definitely closed down. We love what we do, and for us, it is life. Children are our source of life," she said.

One of the volunteers, Fabiana Carneiro, highlighted the importance of informing the community about their rights: "Unfortunately, we cannot file lawsuits, but we can indicate the best path to take." Maria das Graças Pereira da Silva, a resident of Rocinha for 30 years, expressed her satisfaction with the action: "This is perfect. We need more initiatives like this," she said.

The project brought together the efforts of volunteers committed to the well-being of the community. With testimonials like that of Josefa Modesto, who took her dog for a bath and grooming, it is clear the positive impact that these free services have on those who need them most. "These things are very good for us in the community, because we don't always have the means to take our pets to the vet," said Modesto.

Years of Dedication

The NGO Comunitá-Rio, which has been developing cultural and educational activities in Rocinha for 14 years, once again showed its commitment to the community, promoting an event that, in addition to offering essential services, brought hope, through the delivery of the book The Great Controversy, and joy to children with several inflatable toys.

The original article was published on the South American Division Portuguese Division website.