H.O.S. visiting Indonesia
Jakarta, here they visited the studio Komata that is still working for (ex) leprosy patients to empower them to take part in productive work. Through meticulous work, the products of Komata, blouses, T-shirts and school clothing have a good reputation in the local market. During this visit, 80 food parcels were provided to the residents.
A second project, supported by H.O.S., is the U.B. Sani in Pati where 14 patients and two healthy children form one life community. The main source of income is a Greenhouse where decorative plants are grown and sold. But also the gardens and rice fields are important. To buy a new diesel pump for irrigation was made possible by H.O.S.
The project of Pak Suprapto, a good friend of the founder of H.O.S Mr. Piet Timmermans, and a good friend of Brother Leo, was visited in Kelet. 39 orphaned children are taken care of to the end of their secondary school. A small herd: eight cows, four calves and a bull, produces milk for primary school pupils and manure for biogas which is boiled. All students were offered a package of school supplies.
South of Pati and Rembang, nearby the town of Blora the project Wireskat is situated, where about 36 cured leprosy patients form a community under the responsibility of the local parish. The result of their work, flowers, flower pots and sewing, are marketed by the parish of Blora. The visit ended with a communal meal and a diet for everyone.
From Yogyakarta they went to Purwokerto and renewed the contacts. In Purwokerto a new model of care is applied. Patients may continue living at home but are guided in the use of their medicines and in the marketing of their products such as cuttings, peeled onions and palm sugar. A plan for a central research centre study will be developed.
The last project that was visited was NAOB, located on the island of Timor and 6 hours travelling from Kupang. Approximately 300 people, patients, former patients and staff gave the visiters a warm welcome. With the support of local government, church and private sponsors from Indonesia and under the leadership of the PRR sisters the project became a medical centre where until now more than 520 patients were admitted and re-validated. Again, the residents got a practical souvenir of this visit in the form of sarongs and toe sandals.
This self-paid trip, convinced the workers of HOS that the sponsorship money entrusted to them is used in good way. Your donations are welcome at:
ING: 471 June 1929 t.n.v. M. Jansen Alphen on Leprosy action.
