Witness the heartwarming resilience of Abaco as love blossoms amidst the ongoing rebuilding efforts. Join Quinn Mochan on her journey and discover the transformative power of service and community. Quinn has been in Abaco for one month walking alongside a few IMPACT teams; hear Quinn’s initial thoughts and what she’s been up to.
I have been on the precious island of Abaco for a month, and while each day comes with a new set of experiences, views and interactions, one thing that has remained constant is the thread of love that is visible in each moment here. From the ever present smiles to the continual willingness to have a conversation with anyone you cross paths with, Abaconians know how to make you feel loved without even trying. As I have been able to see more parts of their island it is evident there is great hurt and challenges here. Ever since Hurricane Dorian in 2019, structures have remained destroyed, trees are barren, and some people are still without a place to call home. But in each crack caused by the storm, love overflows.
I am in awe of how Many Hands for Abaco has used heart-led service to mend wounds and comfort people in suffering. I am in even more awe by the gratitude that this service is met with by the locals in this community.
I have had the privilege of spending some time in the local elementary school, Central Abaco Primary School (CAPS), working alongside remarkable Many Hands’ team members, Celekah Mills and Carrie Veenstra. Here, some students are multiple grade levels behind due to the resources that were lacking following the storm and the COVID-19 pandemic. Their situation does not take away from their enthusiasm to learn and their joy to be at school. Each time they enter the classroom they greet any and all visitors with a hug and a smile; a smile so sincere that I feel like I can see the face of Jesus through their eyes.
One of my most treasured experiences so far was with a grade 3 student named Tatiana, as we worked one-on-one to get her to the math level she should be. Tatiana is one of many students that this classroom supports. It has been truly beautiful to watch as Many Hands ensures no child is left behind. Great big futures are being positively impacted in that sweet, love-filled, corner classroom at CAPS.
Some more very special moments during my time here have taken place at Poinciana Driftwood Farms owned by Many Hands’ partners Glen and Tracy Kelly. Love flourishes from the roots to the leaves of each plant as every piece of produce is sold intentionally.
Spending time planting seeds, harvesting vegetables and getting to know the workings of the incredible ministry-like hydroponics farm has been an exciting way to see God moving in unique ways. Providing locally grown food to an import reliant community is yet another avenue to invest in the future of the great island of Abaco. IMPACT teams help ensure each crop is fresh from farm to table, just the way God intended it to be.
I wake up each day eager to see the distinctive ways the Lord’s love presents itself here. Both through Many Hands’ outreach and influence along with the locals that make this place as truly abundant in joy and love as it is.
— Quinn Mochan, Many Hands for Abaco Intern
