MONTERREY, MEXICO (July 19, 2010) – The Mexican Government has chosen the Foundation for Family Development in Monterrey to serve as a “Centro de Acopio” -collection and distribution site – for aid desperately needed by people after flooding recently destroyed much of the city’s infrastructure.

Evangelical Covenant Church missionaries Lisandro and Patricia Restrepo along with Nils and Erika Clauson serve at the foundation, which was started by Covenant missionaries. It is a joint ministry of the Department of World Mission and the Covenant Church of Mexico.

In mid-July, Monterrey and the surrounding area was struck by hurricane Alex, which brought high winds and heavy rain, leaving massive flooding and devastating mudslides in their wake. Highways, bridges and many homes – particularly in marginalized areas – were destroyed.

Nearly 100 homes directly across from the foundation were destroyed or severely damaged by flooding and mudslides, says David Mark, regional coordinator for Latin America for the Covenant World Mission.

The foundation’s excellent reputation, as well as its proximity to the disaster, led the Mexican government to designate it as a collection and distribution center, says Mark. The accompanying photo was taken in the distribution center.

The foundation is distributing aid as much as possible, but the needs exceed their capacity, he adds.

Covenant World Relief donated funds over the weekend. Anyone wishing to help with further donations is encouraged to send contributions to Covenant World Relief, 5101 N. Francisco, Chicago, IL, 60625. Please designate checks for “Monterrey Flood Relief.”