Reporters state that Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, is facing the consequences of the worst flood in its history. This issue has become a topic of national and global news. Brands, stores, athletes, and influencers have directed resources to Rio Grande do Sul. Ordinary people have also become involved and looked for ways to contribute to the various humanitarian aid initiatives taking place there.
Ângela Maria lives in Philadelphia, United States. Recently, she learned about the Adopt a Family project through her local church and promptly “sponsored” the family of Beatris Jardim, a resident of the city of Guaíba in the metropolitan region of Porto Alegre, Brazil.
“If we don’t help our neighbors, there’s no point in being here in this world. We have to do our part with what we can, what we can’t we leave in God’s hands”, comments Ângela.
The Adopt a Family project attendant contacted Beatris Jardim to inform her about the possible donation from abroad. The woman from Rio Grande do Sul shares that it was the first time she had to face a situation like this. She states how this “adoption” process is making all the difference in this new beginning with her husband and son.
“I was given Angela's contact details. I spoke to her, and she told me that she wanted to know what we needed immediately. I couldn’t believe it when I received it. I had a mix of feelings: nervous, happy, and very grateful that God put this family in our path,” thanks Beatris.
The Adopt a Family project is an initiative of the Associação Sul Rio Grande do Sul (ASR), administrative headquarters of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the south of the state of Rio Grande do Sul.
It started when people lost their belongings to the floods, which were enough to destroy what entire communities took “a lifetime” to build.
About the Adopt a Family Project
Individuals across Brazil and beyond are coming together to support those in need. This initiative, accessible through a straightforward online process, invites contributions from anyone, anywhere, with an internet connection.
To participate, donors can visit the project website: sos.asr.org.br. The homepage provides essential information about the aid program, including details on each family in need of assistance. By selecting the "I WANT TO HELP" option, potential donors are redirected to WhatsApp, where they are connected with a project representative to guide them through the donation process.
The initiative accepts a wide range of contributions, from financial donations to the provision of new appliances and furniture, all aimed at directly supporting beneficiary families. This innovative approach to charity emphasizes the ease of giving in the digital age and showcases the power of community and technology in mobilizing aid for those in need. For Tiago Fraga, executive secretary of ASR, the most genuine religion appears when we alleviate the suffering of other people: “Knowing that there are people very close to us suffering, that has to move us, it has to move our hearts. and it has to affect our pockets too”.
Fraga adds that this is a time to show the relevance of the church. Prayer is important, but it needs to go hand in hand with action. “There are people who have lost everything. A sacrifice on our part can be really essential to change someone’s life, to help someone have a slightly calmer recovery,” he concludes.
The original article was published on the South American Division Portuguese website.
