As we end the year, the COVID crisis continues to severely impact the Navajo Nation. We continue to plan for resuming our project in the spring and summer and will continue to provide updates as we go through the first months of 2021.
Thanks to Joe Williams, here is a brief year-end report:
This project, sponsored by the Rotary eClub of the State of Jefferson and The Rotary Club of Durango, Daybreak remains active. With team leaders conversing regularly.
- We are waiting for safe conditions to reenter the Nation and planning for a June timeframe pending declaration of safe passage. The majority of our clients are elderly and we dare not take the chance of spreading the virus.
- Inventory and volunteers from Boston to Portland, OR remain on ready.
- NSL remains financially sound for present and estimate two future years without fundraising. Both clubs carry balances in club accounts plus $20,000 in our Durango based community foundation. In addition, our inventory level of 80 solar light kits.
- NSL has been approached to participate in Arizona Rotary club global grant water projects.
- NSL was asked to submit a proposal for a round table presentation at The Water & Sanitation, Health (WASH)- Rotary International Convention this year but did not make final cut.
- NSL distributed 16,000 servings of pinto beans to the Navajo Nation, Sanostee Chapter. These beans were distributed to 5 chapters.
- NSL distributed 8,000 servings of pinto beans to Durango Daybreak for Manna Kitchen for local needs.
Joe has also passed along the following which describes the significant impact the COVID pandemic has had on Navajo women: https://www.daily-times.com/story/news/local/navajo-nation/2020/11/16/searchlight-nm-deadly-loss-navajo-women-covid-19/6314741002/
Pat Crane, e-Club member who originally brought this project to our attention, has passed along the following: Urgent need to raise funds to continue serving Navajo and Hopi communities | Sedona.Biz - The Internet Voice of Sedona and The Verde Valley
Thanks to Joe and Pat for their input and to all of you who have supported our efforts. Stay safe and healthy
For more information or to inquire about how you can help, contact Project Coordinator PP John Allman.
Please visit our project website www.navajosolarlight.org, share it with friends, family, acquaintances, and even strangers. And, of course, think about donating to our cause. Every $300 brings light to another home and family.