31.05.2011 The second container of 2011

On Thursday 27 May we spent a fantastic day loading a new container.
We count ourselves very lucky to have been able to finish without a single drop of rain, despite rather cloudy forecasts.
Of course, good weather has become almost natural for us, since God has never let us down before. Still, we really appreciate having yet another perfect day. All the more, because this allows us to experience God's presence.

A big team of helpers showed up from all over the country.
It is always great to see so many people get up early and brave the traffic jams (some took over 3 hours to get here) to put in a day of hard work. The result is a lot of joy and gratitude as it demonstrates how each of us cares about our fellow people in Surinam.
We worked very hard and had a lot of fun. With a great deal of enthusiasm, we were able to fill up every crook and cranny in the container. And everything was done with a laugh and a joke.

We shouldn't forget those taking care of us on this day. Hot coffee and tea were always waiting for us when we were able to take a break.
Versmarkt Jan Jongerius, the grocer, once again donated a big box of fruit and we enjoyed a nice croquette at lunch.
Scherpenzeel B.V. also allowed us to use lift carts which made our job a lot easier.
How fantastic that all of the above was provided for us!

We are often asked what goods are shipped to Surinam.
The following is rough list of what we sent this time:

• School materials like pens, note books, children's books, young adult books, game materials, toys, black boards and furniture.
• Clothing, bed linens, kitchen materials, care products, toys, small furniture, beds, mattresses and incontinence materials for various institutions such as children's homes, old people's homes, hospitals, HIV foundations and some private individuals. These are the people who really need it, especially those living in the interior of the country.
• Bandages, medicines, ostomy supplies and catheters for hospitals, old people's homes, an ostomy support foundation and medical posts.

Now that the container is shipped out, we begin preparing for the next one!

From this place we would like to thank all those who helped and, as they say in Surinam, a big 'brasa' for you.

Clara Anbeek