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Dear Community & Friends,
Last week, my parents' farm experienced an unfortunate and unforeseen natural disaster.
A mountain landslide occured, which ended up flooding the river adjacent to their house, resulting in a reroute of the river flow towards their home.
Fortunately, my parents, along with their tenants residing on the farm, managed to evacuate in time and reached safety without injury.
The water persisted in flooding the first floor and surrounding areas throughout the night, resulting in significant damage. It wasn't until the next day that excavators were dispatched to remove rocks and debris, and redirect the water away from the house, but not before substantial damage had already occured.
Mike and Silvia moved to Vilcabamba, Ecuador 15 years ago, in hopes of living out their retiring years in a peaceful little sanctuary. They bought a piece of overgrown land with a vision, and spent years building their home from the ground up. They would also invest in biodiverse permactulture system, featuring a lanscape adorned with fruit trees, garden bed, and a small chicken coop.
Their vision extended beyond themselves; they wanted to create a place for their children and families, allowing future genrerations to have the opportunity in fulfilling their own dreams on this little farm they would call Finca la Hermosa.
After years of cultivating their little piece of paradise and realizing their dreams, my mom would finally enjoy her days strolling through the garden beds, reading in her hammock, and meditating. Meanwhile, my dad would find new projects to keep him excited about life, such as his latest passion for growing coffee, which he would roast and sell to local shops in town.
Their peace and simple joys have come to a sudden halt following the calamity.
Having invested their retirement savings into their dream sanctuary, they now find themselves facing financial difficulties.
Unfortunately unlike in the US, Ecuador does not have any financial goverment relief, nor homeowners insurance, to assist with repairs.
Their limited income primarily comes from Social Security and rent from tenants occupying spare rooms. However, the lockoff and casita can no longer be rented out until necessary repairs are completed.
Landslide Damage: A significant landslide redirected the river, causing severe flooding in their home.
Property Impact: The flood affected the entire first floor of their house, guest house, porch, entrance, and garden beds.
Infrastructure Destruction: Water pipelines have been uprooted, and electrical systems are damaged.
Safety: Thankfully, everyone was able to evacuate safely.
Financial Strain: My parents, both in their 70s no longer working, rely on rental income from tenants in their lock-off and casita for daily expenses.
Limited Income: With only minimal social security support, it will take years for them to repair and rebuild.
Retirement Dreams: They hoped to enjoy their golden years in their sanctuary in Vilcabamba, and leave a legacy for their children.
Your support and contributions will be directed towards the following efforts:
- Engaging in hands-on labor to clear rubble and debris scattered across the property, including porches, gardens, and along the riverbank.
- Redigging and replacing water pipelines and electrical systems.
- Rebuilding interior walls that have been damaged by the water, which may be infected with mold.
- Reconstructing the entrance, stairs, railings, tiles, and concrete wall sidings.
- Hauling in topsoil that has been washed away.
- Re-fencing and rebuilding garden beds.
- Replacing a refrigerator and kitchen range that were destroyed in the flooding.
- Hiring a cleaning service to assist with removing sludge, dust, and dirt from inside the house.
We recognize that some of you may not know my parents, but Joe and I have shared stories of our visits to their farm, which allowed you to have your own connection and experiences. From bringing back coffee to enjoy, to the possibility in visiting... as my parents have always been welcoming of our friends. Finca La Hermosa was built as a safe haven for anyone ever in need.
At this time, your support, however big or small, would mean a great deal in helping my parents rebuild their lives, to once again enjoy their final years in a peaceful habitat.
And for you to come out and visit :)
We will provide ongoing updates on our progress and the difference your support will make.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Tam & Joe
OTHER WAYS TO HELP:
Venmo: @Tam-Konrad
Zelle: TAMARA KONRAD [phone redacted]
Order charcuterie from The Noshing Platter (thenoshingplatter.com): 50% of all proceeds will go towards our goal
Attend El Paso Lasso fundraiser: date and place TBD
