On September 19, 2017, at 1:14pm, a 7.1 magnitude earthquake hit central Mexico killing more than 300 people and injuring more than 2800. The small state of Morelos has become the one of the epicenters, was the second most impacted area with 97 fatalities and more than 350 injured. While there are not yet available statistics of the extend of property damage, many people partially or completely lost their homes and businesses.
From September 23 to September 26, PWB photographer Francisco Alcala Torreslanda documented the work the Mexican Red Cross is doing to support the people impacted by this deadly disaster that has left so many homeless. Torreslanda followed crews to the areas of Hueyapan, Tecomalco, Chinameca, Olintepec, where they delivered food and other provisions. During this process, he spoke to some of the families they encountered and has set up a GoFundMe page to help support these families.
These are their stories:
This is what is left of Sergio Barreda Flores’ home. The total loss is crushing, and the three inhabitants are trying to figure out what they will do. PHOTO: Francisco Alcala Torreslanda
The earthquake in Jojutla, Morelos destroyed homes and businesses. People are not only left without a place to live but without a source of income. PHOTO: Francisco Alcala Torreslanda
Álvaro Jaimes was able to get out of his small flat that he shares with his uncle Jesús Jaime. Now the place is completely uninhabitable. PHOTO: Francisco Alcala Torreslanda
Verónica Bravo Santamaria looking at her home as it is being demolished. Six people lived in the house including her husband, her children Francisco Antonio and Mari José, and her in-laws. They are currently sleeping in their truck. PHOTO: Francisco Alcala Torreslanda
Jatziri Ramírez and husband Daniel Salgado’s home was severely damaged; Meanwhile they need to take care of their three children whose names are Abigail, Ismael, and Aurora. PHOTO: Francisco Alcala Torreslanda
Virginia Hernández is a mother of six and is currently expecting another one. Her home was damaged and categorized uninhabitable by the authorities. PHOTO: Francisco Alcala Torreslanda
Jorge Martínez Aponte, 7 years old, went from living in a cosy home one day to living with his family and other 8 families in a makeshift tent refuge the next. PHOTO: Francisco Alcala Torreslanda
Scores of people waiting to receive provisions from the Red Cross in near Moyotepec Morelos. PHOTO: Francisco Alcala Torreslanda
Consuelo Hernández was in her bedroom when the earthquake hit. She was able to get out alive but everything was destroyed. PHOTO: Francisco Alcala Torreslanda
Red Cross brigades and volunteers deliver provisions to impacted households in Hueyapan Morelos. PHOTO: Francisco Alcala Torreslanda
Volunteers take a break after many hours of removing rubble from impacted households in Hueyapan Morelos. PHOTO: Francisco Alcala Torreslanda
Rogelio Escobar and wife Ernestina Bravo had some parts of his home completely destroyed. Other areas are significantly damaged. They are already assisting with reconstruction. PHOTO: Francisco Alcala Torreslanda
Mexican Red Cross and volunteers oading provisions to distribute to impacted communities at the Red Cross headquarters in Cuautla Morelos. PHOTO: Francisco Alcala Torreslanda
The earthquake in Jojutla, Morelos destroyed the lives, homes and businesses of many. People are not only left without a place to live but without a source of income. PHOTO: Francisco Alcala Torreslanda
In the middle of the deep crisis, people still believe in their beloved nation, Mexico. PHOTO: Francisco Alcala Torreslanda
The people of Mexico have massive needs right now. Many families have seen their livelihoods completely disappear and have been forced to live in the streets. They need our help.
The money received through this effort will be divided between 14 impacted families, including the ones pictured here.
We can all give Mexico a hand by donating here: https://www.gofundme.com/MexicoEarthquakeVictims
