Appeal for October: Nicaragua – A Vital Medical Project

Appeal of the Month – A New Way to Help

Each month, the CGI’s Commission for International Aid and Development (CIAD) selects a particularly worthwhile Society project which is badly in need of funds and invites the Society throughout the world to support it directly.

Normally, the CIAD would support much-needed projects itself; but with Covid-19 and other demands on its limited funds, the CIAD cannot assist all worthwhile projects presented. We are, therefore, providing an opportunity for selected projects to appeal for the support of the international community of the Society through the medium of CGIs website with the full endorsement of the CIAD.

Background

With a population of about 7 million in 2021 (60% are young people), Nicaragua, in Central America, is one of the poorest countries in the world, with diverse cultures and etnic groups, and a majority of Catholics.

Currently, the SSVP Nicaragua is made up of 24 conferences. In addition to home visits, they undertake projects to support vulnerable communities (e.g. drinking water and roof repairs).

Since 2020, the National Council operates a healthcare home which supports 400 people on a weekly basis (children, youth, adults and the elderly), by providing medical care and shelter they could not otherwise afford. This healthcare home also houses family members and patients discharged from the nearby general public hospital.

The Appeal

With the increase in health problems due to the pandemic, which is badly affecting Nicaragua, the National Council regards the centre as an essential service for the poorest.

The operating cost of this centre falls entirely on the National Council, which has insufficient funds to keep on providing the service required to meet the demand of 400 needy people. The shortfall is about €1800 per month (€ 22,000 per year) to meet essential needs (food, clothing and medicines).

How to help

For further details on how to donate to the SSVP Nicaragua, please email: cgi.ciad@ssvpglobal.org. Within the framework of this appeal, the CGI is not the recipient, but a mere relay of this direct aid to our sisters and brothers in Nicaragua.

The CIAD strongly encourages members, SSVP Conferences and Councils throughout the world to support this Appeal. Please send what you can! Your generosity will enable the Society Nicaragua to keep on providing medical support and a place to stay during treatment for those poor patients who suffer from serious diseases and live far away, and their relatives. 

THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROSITY