To most Americans, the sight and sound of first responders rushing to help someone is routine. But it’s a different story on the tiny island of Brava in Cape Verde. That’s why the mayor of Brockton and Fall River Massachusetts are hosting a fundraiser to pay for the cost of shipping of an ambulance to Brava.
“When I had the opportunity to visit Brava the year before last and spend some time there, one of the things that we came home knowing is that the access to medical care there is limited,” said Bill Carpenter, Mayor of Brockton.
Brewster refurbished the ambulance and stocked it with the latest medical technology and supplies.
Brewster refurbished the ambulance and stocked it with the latest medical technology and supplies. Brava’s mayor, Orlando Balla, is pleased.
“To me it’s a little bit more than just the gift of the ambulance. It’s an expression of togetherness, an expression of wanting to help, and to bring Brava into the 21st century..” said Balla.
As a number of Cape Verdean Americans mingled inside the Santana Restaurant And Function Hall with other residents of Massachusetts, Fall River’s new mayor, Jasiel Correia, said he was honored to take part in what will be the first of many efforts to help people in Cape Verde.
“It’s obviously important to me because its part of my heritage. My dad is from Brava, my mom is from the Azores, but my Cape Verdean culture is extremely important, so it’s an honor to be here tonight.”
The people of Brockton, MA have already sent a vehicle like this one to Fogo. Carpenter says he expects the city and its residents will donate even more.
