Floods in Tabasco: a call for solidarity

Author: Paola Yáñez Arias
Videos: Amextra, A.C.

2020 was a very difficult year for the world: we were faced with a global pandemic, we had to adapt to a new normal, most of the things we knew and used to do completely changed. Yes, it was a complicated year for all of us, but while this was happening, Tabasco was experiencing an emergency besides COVID-19: during the months of October and November they suffered the worst floods recorded in the last decade.

Tabasco has always been a territory susceptible to flooding, it’s a problem that the people of the region have been dealing with for a very long time. Even though they’re used to these types of disasters happening, no one was prepared for the damage the floods that occurred at the end of 2020 would leave behind.

Protección Civil reported the damage: 899 communities, more than 99 thousand homes, 302,498 people were affected and the death of 8 more. In certain regions, the inhabitants did not come down from their roofs for days due to the high levels of the water, people had to take refuge under improvised tin roofs, sleep on wet mats and wait hours to be able to feed themselves. Thousands of families experienced despair and anguish after losing everything.

One of Amextra’s biggest commitments is supporting people during their time of need. For this reason, from November 20 to the 27th we made our first trip to Tabasco to help during the emergency. Thanks to all the people and organizations that supported our campaign for the affected families, during this trip we were able to deliver 175 food baskets and 700 hot meals, as well as more than 100 kg of clothes and shoes. By doing this, we directly benefited 816 people in 4 communities: José Colomo, Barrial, Ramón Grande and Allende Parte 1.

Despite the help received by Amextra and other organizations, three months after the floods, there are still towns where help has not arrived or is insufficient. Therefore, the collaboration of society is still needed for the donation of non-perishable food, basic supplies, medicines, clothing and footwear.

The emergency is far from over and our commitment to the people of Tabasco does not end here. It is still in our hands to help more affected families. Help us with a donation here or contact us at [email protected] or in our social media. Be part of holistic transformation!