NEWS FROM THE HOGAR! October, 2000 By Lee Isackson
Orchid Members and Rotary Friends, for those of you who were unable to be at the site for packing and loading the 6th container, here are just a few pictures for a frame of reference.
Following this effort by about 25 heat-resistant souls, the filled-to-the-brim container was closed, sealed, and shipped. From that point until it reached its destination at the Port at Rio Haina, Dominican Republic 23 days later, its fate was in the hands of the shipper. The next phase of the project included completion of all the documentation and delivery of the paperwork. The receipt of the container is always met with trepidation because one never knows what to expect with the changing times in the Dominican Republic.
We are happy to report that our hopes to see this stage of the project completed while Orchid members were present at the Hogar, was fulfilled. The 40-foot high top, shipping container, loaded with donations, mattresses, food supplies, medical supplies, and numerous other items, arrived at the Hogar during our recent visit there, September 21 - October 2. With great relief, we were informed that the container would finally be released from the dock and delivered to the Hogar late in the evening of Sept. 26th in the drenching downpour of tropical rains. Needless to say, there was no time wasted in unloading, sorting the goods, and storing each category in its proper place.
The Sisters and children worked hard to stow the goods with utmost care. Later that week, our contingent of Orchid Members, Harold (Woody) Wooden, (Orchid Foundation President), Dick (Container Chairman and Orchid Board Member) and Lee Isackson, Charlie Borden, and Bernadine and Russell Stephenson, put some 'sweat effort' into removing the old mattresses from the bunks, and replacing them with the new ones. While performing this effort, the group noted that it was unfortunate that other Orchid Board Members, Gay and Frank Nichols were unable to be there to see the completion of this Container VI Project following their extensive efforts on it. Having arrived on the 21st with the Isacksons, the Nichols' had previously returned to NJ.
Many of you will remember Sister Lourdes, who visited NJ last year. We were privileged to hear her speak at several Rotary Club Meetings, and church meetings throughout New Jersey. You may also be aware that Str. Lourdes is now the Principal of Altagrossa School in Moca, Dominican Republic, about 2 ½ hours drive north of Santo Domingo. It was a pleasure for Lee Isackson and Bernie Stephenson to be able to visit the school and the construction site of a new high school, which is being built in the campo outside of Moca. The need for education of poor in the campo is great and it is the dream of Str. Lourdes, to one day, be the Principal of that high school.
With the success of Container VI, thanks to the efforts of many, it is indeed a very vivid demonstration of will, to accomplish seemingly insurmountable tasks.