As many of you are very aware that several hurricanes have caused considerable destruction in Texas, Puerto Rico, the caribe and Mexico.
Some of our members in Puerto Rico are in dire need of supplies. The current status on the island is 100% of the population is without power. An estimated 6 months before power and most telecommunications are reestablish in Puerto Rico.
I've been in contact with Master ClassReyes, the designee for the World Moo Duk Kwan in Puerto Rico. And we have heard from others associated members in Puerto Rico, and I'm happy to say, no injuries, some have damages to their households, and others are struggling with day to day supplies. Gas distribution has started in some areas, but with the major flooding many of the operational gas stations are not operating because the tanks have been contaminated. Master ClassReyes says, there are 12 hour waits in line for $15.00 worth of gas. Hopefully in the coming days, that will improve slowly, but he also said people are starting to behave negatively.
Here's what you can do if you wish to get involved. Start thinking of non perishable supplies that can be properly shipped to those affected in Puerto Rico or Mexico or Texas. Postal services are still not operational in Puerto Rico, but they have announced that operations may be possible in a few days. That's good news if they start delivering packages.
Here's a short example of a list supplies you can send them:
Batteries, all sizes
candles
toothpaste
moist towelettes or wipes
diapers
canned baby food
regular canned food
fruit drinks in pouches
socks
portable folding propane stoves (single or double burners)
portable propane lamps
personal hygiene items (male and female)
first aid kits
tissue paper
tissues
paper towels
plastic folks and knives
napkins
portable water containers - camelbaks
Tylenol
Not sure of what else to send, think in terms of having to go on a camping trips for several months, what would you need to bring? You can also go to a local camping outlet or store and ask a sales associate to suggest items for you.
Then think about packaging in terms of weight and box size that the postal office will be able to ship and deliver.
As soon as I am aware that deliveries are making it through, I will post the name and addresses of our MDK family in Puerto Rico in need of assistance. You can take it from there.
Also if you wish to communicate with MDK family members in Puerto Rico I've establish a group on the Zello application, which you can download at zello.com Search for the group World MDK family (case sensitive) and contact the members you will be supporting with assistance. Master Jim ClassReyes has a Zello ID of Jim Class, if you search for a zello name, use Jim Class. He will be up on the net periodically because he has to use his generator only at certain times of the day. Today he said that WIFI is up in his neighborhood periodically also, So if you can't reach, please try at another time. Just from a morale perspective, I'm sure they will be happy to hear from you. Some short conversation can continue to motivate them during these dire times and keep them motivated in the coming weeks or months.
If you cannot get involved, please consider donating to the many relief efforts underway through the American Red Cross. Thank you for your support of our Moo Duk Kwan Families.
In Moo Do,
Roberto Bonefont, Sr.
Region 2
