“We See Firsthand Jehovah’s Love”

During February 2023, over 400 fires caused major destruction in Chile. More than 430,000 hectares (1,062,553 acres) of land, along with critical parts of Chile’s infrastructure, were destroyed. Approximately 8,000 people were evacuated. Soon after the disaster struck, the branch office started to organize relief efforts.

Effect on Our Brothers and Sisters

• 222 publishers had to be evacuated

• 20 homes were destroyed

Use of Donated Funds

Over $200,000 was spent on disaster relief, which included:

• Food and water

• Fuel, cleaning supplies, and medicines

• Reconstruction of damaged homes

One family was shocked to find that everything they had was destroyed, including their home and business. This left the family without employment. During the first few days, it was traumatic for the family to see the empty lot where their house had previously stood. But as the reconstruction progressed, they were slowly able to overcome their fear. Seeing the outpouring of love and affection from the volunteers helped them to cope. The family was so moved by this experience that they joined the volunteers and helped rebuild another brother’s home.

Many of our brothers and sisters were touched by the relief work. One brother said: “Jehovah’s arrangement of Disaster Relief Committees is truly marvelous. The day after the tragedy, they were already on-site providing basic items. It is moving to read about disaster relief in other parts of the world. But when it happens to you, it is very different. You appreciate the organization more; how the brothers imitate Jehovah’s qualities; and how concerned they are that we have what we need materially, spiritually, and emotionally. We see firsthand Jehovah’s love in action.”