Community generous, Honduras will benefit

Since Hurricanes Eta and Iota struck the Honduras, there is a tremendous need for supplies.

Local organizer Wapak Naz Pastor Stephen Ambrose has been working with Pastor Rob Alexander at The Valley in Piqua, on Hope for Honduras collections at trailers in the community. Ambrose was pleased with the donations that have been collected in Wapakoneta on the final day.

“What’s in the trailer is very indicative of our community. We as a community are a generous community,” Ambrose said.

Hundreds of cars have been pulling up and adding a little bit here and a little bit there. “When we rally together as a community, we truly can make a major impact,” he said.

Aside from donations of food, clothing,

hygiene supplies and other basic necessities, the Wapakoneta Naz has taken in about $ 700 in donations locally, which will go toward items still needed — and shipping costs. Organizers are also reaching out to companies like Chiquita, Dole and Cargill to assist with shipping.

Ambrose has been involved for several years with the Valley Church in Piqua.

His wife, Amy Ambrose, was a children’s pastor at The Valley for eight years.

He said they went with Pastor Paul Jetter on a couple of mission trips to Honduras and have coordinated mission efforts with their church. Ambrose said they have built churches on their trips.

“I love the people; the people are so genuine and loving. They are so willing to be generous with what little they have; they are always smiling,” Ambrose said.

Rob Alexander, who is leading the effort, also gathered donations during Hurricane Mitch in 1998. Alexander said he was able to help a lot of people back then and hopes to do that again.

Alexander said they have been getting good response and assistance from churches in the community. Trailers had been set up to take donations in Piqua, Troy, Sidney and Wapakoneta. Monday was the last day Wapakoneta trailer was accepting donations.

A variety of community members have volunteered, including members of the National Honor Society and Distributive Education Clubs of America.