In our previous edition, we did an extensive report on House of Mercy and the wonderful service they are giving to homeless people, who used to spent the day in establishments that allowed them to stay for some time, just to get warm.
We highlighted how Roger Farah had come to his rescue, putting his own resources, providing not only a place to spend the day, in addition to offering breakfast and lunch, the opportunity to take a shower, wash and dry their clothes, all at no cost .
Still amazed by the work of Farah and his volunteers, we got the news of what Dr. Terika Smith and her Ministry are doing.
` It all began with the total destruction caused by Hurricane Maria, the most powerful hurricane that has hit Puerto Rico in more than 80 years, that destroyed hundreds of homes and left the entire island without electricity and the massive popular participation that engulfed Lawrence residents for weeks.
Donations came from all over; so many that they no longer fit in the spaces donated by Eng. Rafael Guzman in his building at 530 Broadway, which had to be moved to the National Guard warehouses in Worcester.
Already in Puerto Rico, donations began to arrive and to ensure that the distribution was being carried out as quickly and organized as possible, there was Terika Smith working with the leaders of the different local churches to achieve the goal.
Back in Lawrence, Dr. Smith came across another challenge. Puerto Ricans who had lost everything there, being citizens of this country, many decided to come to Lawrence creating with it other needs such as housing, schools and appropriate clothing for the climate which they are not accustomed to.
She soon opened offices where they give emotional counseling to newcomers, as well as guidance in getting a job, a food pantry and a clothing section for men, women and children, and for the latter, she created The Corner of Hope, a Boutique which has nothing to envy to that of any famous stores.
Lawrence is fortunate to have people like Roger Farah and Dr. Terika Smith. Those in need of what they have to offer must thank the Creator for putting them in their path.
