Urgent Relief: Helping Historic Flood Victims in Brazil

Hello,

I'm Erida Pailas, a Brazilian born and raised in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. I live in the United States since 2013, but I am deeply connected to my hometown, Igrejinha, and the beautiful Paranhana Valley, place I visit every year with my husband and children.

Recently, my hometown and many other cities in our state have been devastated by a historic flood. People I know, even family members and friends have been left homeless, losing everything they owned. Tragically, some have also lost loved ones to the powerful currents. Entire homes lie submerged, and the sight of deceased, including infants, floating in the floodwaters is heart-wrenching.

This video captures the devastation of a neighborhood in Igrejinha, leaving me feeling powerless.

To aid those in need, I've launched a GoFundMe campaign. The funds are going to residents of Igrejinha and other affected cities in the Paranhana Valley and Rio dos Sinos Valley. The funds are being transferred to my mother's account. She lives in Igrejinha, one of the most affected cities in Rio Grande do Sul. My mother, Rosane Biazus, is volunteering in the two main donation centers in the city, one of which is being organized by the City of Igrejinha and the other by Sobrinhos Rock Bar. She is carefully using the funds to buy items such as hygiene kits, towels, blankets, diapers, etc. or any item that is currently in high demand. She is also driving around the city and speaking directly with people, visiting their homes and providing the supplies that they need, such as the aforementioned items. I am also distributing amounts ranging from 200-400 Brazilian Reais (30-80 US dollars) to some individuals/families that I know for sure have lost everything, including their homes. I am also distributing funds to a few other trusted individuals who are tirelessly volunteering, going from shelter to shelter to bring water, food, blankets, etc. I prefer not to send funds to large organizations because I won't know for sure that the help will get to the people who actually need it. That is why I am sending the funds to a trusted person who is wisely and carefully distributing it directly to the community. Sobrinhos Rock Bar is starting to collect money to buy used furniture from thrift stores to donate to those who need to start rebuilding their lives. Fabricio Rohr, the organizer, and my mother are going to be visiting people in their homes to assess their needs. I will use the funds to aid in their campaign as well.

Our goal is to collect $15,000 to assist as many families as possible. Please donate any amount you can and share widely to maximize our impact.

With heartfelt appreciation,

Erida Pailas.