Hit the Ground Running

Day 2: February 9, 2020

Today started with breakfast with our host families. We all met together at the Health Centre so we could take a walking tour of Yamasa with our guides/translators who are local high school students.

Our next challenge was to visit two Bateyes https://cotni.org/news/dominican-republic/2007/11/14/origin-dominican-batey and speak with the families who live there. We were told to prepare ourselves to see some extreme poverty. On three trucks, we travelled not far from Yamasa to 2 separate small villages. It is difficult to put into words what we actually saw. Although conditions have improved greatly over the years, for a first time visitor, it was definitely the most poverty I have ever experienced. Large families with small children living in small living spaces, with very little material items. When we arrived to the first Batey (Guazumita), there was a group of boys playing baseball. The students played tag with a group of children as well. There was a young woman who approached me and put her hand in mine, without saying a word. We continued on the next Batey where past groups have spent considerable time and money improving the conditions there. Two families graciously let us into their tiny homes so we could experience their living conditions.

We tried to focus on the people - talk to them, be with them. A humbling experience for all.
Back to our host families for lunch and a break from the hot afternoon sun. The late afternoon brought us back to the Health Centre where we dispersed into small groups to deliver “Friendship Kits.” These are large bags full of food (rice, oats, olive oil, beans, sardines, tomato paste, brown sugar, etc.). My group delivered 5 kits to families. We went into each home and spent some time visiting. Our translator was very helpful. Each family had their own unique story and we enjoyed our visits because the Dominican people were so thankful and happy for the visit and the much needed supplies. No matter what their situation, their gratitude and strong faith were clearly evident.

After a reflection on the day, we returned to our homes to get ready for supper. From 7-9pm, we all gather together for dinner with the group, our families, and guides/translators. The food is amazing and we are treated so well. After dinner, there was Dominican music and dancing! For the students, this is a fun, cultural highlight for them.