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Escanaba couple raises support for Honduras amid pandemic
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April 25, 2020Tim and Julie Bishop, parishioners of St. Joseph and St. Patrick Parish in Escanaba, have led mission trips of Yoopers to the barrio of La Granja in La Paz, Honduras for many years. The group they founded with Fr. Robb Jurkovich in 2008 is called 'Sirvientes de Cristo,' Spanish for 'Servants of Christ.'
Through the years, Sirvientes de Cristo has engaged in numerous evangelizing efforts in La Granja with the local pastor, Fr. Abel, including a yearly medical mission trip and Bible fiesta for the youth. The most recent project has been building a Divine Mercy Center for catechesis, children and youth Bible camps, and works of mercy.
In the midst of alarming circumstances that have arisen in the wake of the pandemic, Tim and Julie have spearheaded an additional effort to help the people of La Granja.
"The Honduran government has reacted quickly and aggressively to the spread of the virus. Early on, they closed all but essential business and restricted movement. Most of the people in the barrio live day-to-day, earning today the money to buy food for tomorrow. Now without a source of income, and no food reserves, they face a bleak future," says Julie.
With a poor sanitation system, a prevalence of existing health issues, and overcrowded living areas, the effects of the pandemic will be felt even worse in the barrio.
Sirvientes de Cristo has started a food distribution program for the people of the barrio. "We'll be distributing packets of food to the poorest residents of the barrio, sufficient to feed a family of four for twelve days. It includes beans, rice, flour, sugar, salt, and butter. The packets will also include face masks being made by some of our partners in the barrio," Julie says.
Contributions of any amount are greatly appreciated and will be matched up to $3,600. "One packet of food for a family costs about $50. And ten face masks cost $10," says Julie. Funds that are raised go to purchase food and fabric.
Tim and Julie ask for prayers for the family in La Granja who is storing the food purchased for distribution. "They are truly putting themselves in harm's way. This is an incredible family. Without their support, we would have no mission in La Granja. They are the family that has encouraged us when we thought things were impossible."
As of April 25th, Sirvientes de Cristo has raised $4,535 for this effort to help the people of La Granja. With that money, 270 people will receive food packages, and 190 face masks have been sewn and will be distributed.
If you are in a position to help, please send contributions to 'Sirvientes de Cristo' at the following address:
Sirvientes de Cristo
P.O. Box 25
Escanaba, Mi 49829.
You can also give online by pressing the “Donate” button at www.sirvientesdecristo.com.
