MDUMC Missions | Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico’s recovery since Hurricanes Maria and Irma in 2017 has progressed slowly but steadily, thanks largely to the Methodist Church of Puerto Rico and the expertise, partnerships, and resources it has gained and shared in that arduous effort. Leading the way is its “social holiness” ministry, the aptly named ReHACE, Rebuilding Communities with Hope.

ReHACE has deployed resources and work teams into 25 heavily populated areas, aided by the United Methodist Committee on Relief and United Methodist Volunteers in Mission. The two collaborative work areas of Global Ministries came to the MCPR’s aid in the wake of the storms to help repair homes that were uninsured and not served by FEMA, aiding struggling residents who had nowhere else to turn.

There was extensive damage to structures from severe winds and flooding, lack of food and water and a loss of electricity for many months because of a devastated antiquated power grid. More than 400,000 residents have left the island since the storm; and many who remain have suffered from illness and depression.

Since February 2018, more than 2,300 U.S. mission volunteers have provided well over 70,000 hours of labor to repair mostly homes.

ReHACE’s case managers identify, vet and report critical needs and conditions among hurricane-affected residents and families. Local and U.S. volunteers are deployed to worksites to respond to urgent home repair needs, while also offering emotional support to homeowners.

“It still amazes me to see people coming from other places just to work here, just to show us the love of Jesus” said Stephanie Acosta, a translator. “Seeing the before and after of the houses? That’s hope right there.”

“We can rebuild our homeland together,” said MCPR Bishop Hector Ortiz. “We are grateful for The United Methodist Church’s support, especially for UMCOR and the volunteers who have come to help us recover. Over 4,000 of our people died from this tragedy; but we have actually saved lives, and now we have a comprehensive plan for full recovery.”

If you would like to be a part of the 2020 MDUMC mission team to help families in Puerto Rico rebuild and recover, please join us at our next interest meeting on December 10 at 6:30pm in room D205 or by contacting kellyvicente@mdumc.org.

Adapted from an article published by John W. Coleman for umcmission.org.