New Hope Member Travels to Nepal to Help Rebuilding Efforts

Gabe Suarez left his home in Baltimore to assist rebuilding efforts in Nepal, a country struggling after recent two earthquakes.

Story by V. Michelle Bernard

Suarez, who attends Chesapeake Conference’s New Hope church in Fulton, Md., is an emergency logistics officer for Medair, a Christian organization based in Switzerland. He previously helped provide relief to victims of Hurricane Katrina in Biloxi, Miss., in 2005; to refugees in South Sudan in 2008; and most recently managing the supply chain in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Photo courtesy Gabe Suarez

Suarez says his motivation to help in Nepal was fueled by the emotions he felt by putting himself in the Nepalese people’s shoes. He adds, “The timing to go to Nepal was conducted by God. I was contacted at a time when I was free from responsibilities and I could commit three weeks of my time. It is hard for me to give up my nice, calm routine, but leaving my worries in God’s hands has helped me to keep my focus on the Nepalese survivors.”

Suarez arrived two weeks ago and visited Chautara, a town in the northeastern mountains. He says the April 25 earthquake weakened numerous local structures. Many collapsed, then buckled or leaned down the slopes after the May 12 quake. “The survivors are still trying to run their shops from the side of the road or even from their damaged homes. They are mostly sleeping outside by their fields or even by their broken homes,” he says.

Some of the damage in Chautara. Photo courtesy Gabe Suarez.

Suarez says the biggest needs in this part of the country are for shelter for people and livestock, and medical attention for the injured. But, the needs will soon shift toward education, demolition and reconstruction. Relief agencies are under pressure to provide relief before the monsoon season starts in June, which can cause landslides and potentially block access to the town and increase the risk of cholera and other illnesses, he adds.

When asked how Americans can help, Suarez emphasized the importance of realizing how blessed Americans are to live in the United States with their home, family and friends. He also encouraged readers to pray for the victims of the tragedy and to support relief organizations that are helping.

Related articles:

• Nepal’s Adventists Find New Source of Energy: Helping Others
• Adventist Leader in Nepal Calls for Prayer After New Quake
• Quake Shakes U.S. Church as Adventist Pastor Makes Nepal Appeal
• Help Support Relief Efforts in Nepal