(ANS – Formosa) – Because of the very heavy rains and the subsquent rising of the rivers Paraguay and Pilcomayo, a serious flood has effected the Argentine Province of Formosa. Over 6,000 families have had to be evacuated losing everything they possessed. In recent days about 400 mm of rain have fallen and it is expected that the rains and high level of the rivers could continue until the middle of July.

Formosa is sufferiing the consequences of these heavy rains in the valley near the river Paraguay basin. The Salesians and their  lay helpers in Formosa are helping the stricken families taking them food, dry clothing, coats, and  caring for the children who have lost everything.

At present many things are needed. The most urgent are nappies, milk, bottled water, wellington boots especially for children, blankets and insecticides  to  keep insects, snakes and spiders at bay.

It is  possible to provide practical help for the displaced families either using the dedicated section of the site of the Salesians in Argentina, or sending food and other first-aid material by contacting the local  Salesians on: en2ruedas@donbosco.org.ar.

Published 04/07/2014