Due to the calamity caused by the floods in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil earlier in 2024, many volunteers mobilized to help those affected in different ways.

In July, 20 volunteers from the Instituto O Amor Chama embarked on a four-day mission to help clean up homes devastated by floods. The group of volunteers left the Adventist Church in the Portão neighborhood on July 13 and returned on the morning of July 18 after intense days of work.

During the mission, the Vila Glória Adventist Church, in São Leopoldo, was the support base, offering accommodation and food for the team.

The Impact of Volunteering

Among the volunteers was Janete Marinho, a 61-year-old retired teacher from São José dos Pinhais, Paraná, who found a new purpose in life through volunteering.

Marinho, who prepared dozens of kits to be distributed to the community, shared how dedication to others helped her overcome a deep depression. "I was in a depression where you don't shower, you don't want to eat, you don't want anything. You just want to disappear. But then, a friend, who I call an angel, knocked on my door and invited me to volunteer. That motivates me a lot these days," she reveals emotionally.

She explains that, after retiring, she sought to get involved in social causes as a way to find a new purpose. "This project was a blessing. It's a shame it didn't last long because the work is a lot, a lot. But I plan to go back," she said, highlighting the positive impact the experience had on her life. "Today, I can say this: volunteering took me out of depression. I no longer take any type of medication. It's about doing something for others, but in fact, I ended up doing it for myself. I've always been the one to benefit and always will be," she says.

Marinho also emphasizes the importance of finding a purpose, especially for those facing emotional challenges. "Being retired helps, I have time to help. And may this serve as a warning to other people in the same situation. Medicine is there to be used, but many times, we need to get down on our knees, ask God for help, do good, and embrace a cause. The main beneficiary is us," she advises.

A Mission of Solidarity

The Instituto O Amor Chama cleaned, removed debris, painted, and made minor repairs to homes in the Vicentina community in São Leopoldo and Sarandi in Porto Alegre. In addition to making physical improvements to the homes, volunteers provided emotional support to the affected families, offering serenades and prayers for those who were facing the loss of their possessions and the trauma of the floods.

Invitations were also distributed so that these families could participate in the activities of the Adventist Church in the Vicentina neighborhood, along with copies of the Adventist Magazine and the book O Ultimo Convite (The Last Invitation). The kits also included treats such as sweets, woolen hats, and dish towels.

Giovana Felix, responsible for communication at O ​​Amor Chama and leader of the volunteer program, reinforced the importance of the mission and the impact it has had on the lives of those involved. "God was in charge of everything and prepared our hearts, allowing the love of Christ to overflow through us wherever we went. We heard many stories and were able to guide and bless each person with the Word of God! It was very common to see tears in their eyes after saying 'Amen' to each prayer. Their gratitude was immense for being there, praying with them," says the volunteer.

This mission, marked by moments of emotion and transformation, shows how solidarity can not only rebuild homes but also restore lives.

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