Update on Family & Fire Damage

[Jzmackenzie]

Patrons, Friends, and Family,

Most of this week has been a challenge for the couple losing their home to a fire on Feb. 18th. They have been dealing with Mexican authorities. Like the IRS in the USA, there is always a disclaimer saying that anything an employee tells you may be right or wrong. Every contact is questionable.

Yesterday, they learned that although they now have a copy of the paperwork that proves they own the land, it is not the right type of copy. They need to spend time and money to get the right type of copy. When they get the correct copy, they can ask the state to help rebuild their home. They will have to wait until May 2013 to file that request for materials. It takes many months, perhaps until May 2014, according to reports by other families, to actually get any materials donated for the new home. Regarding DIF (MX social services), it is still planning to give them materials for window frames, some electrical cable and 10 bags of cement. No date has been set to actually get the materials.

A closer inspection of the remains of the home, by a qualified stonemason, has revealed that the fire damaged many parts of their original ceiling. It is now unsafe to be under the ceiling. It cannot be repaired. It must be removed and replaced with new concrete forms.

This past week, young Lalo and Geovanni have been working on the septic tank while the delay regarding proof or ownership paperwork was worked out, they are waiting for the donated backhoe to arrive, and the main stone mason finishes his current job. Next week, the concrete forms will be installed.

I plan to take photos this week to send along to all of you.

The family is more grateful each day for your help as they have now been homeless for nearly five weeks.

Sincerely,

Don, Jacquie, & Jolene