By Perry Gladstone

The Hero defines himself in crisis and so, too, does a community. This is when the morals and values built over time are called into action, put to the test. What will we stand for? Will we endure?

This past October was one of those times. Tropical Storm Nate caused widespread flooding, landslides, mud all over the place and the worst overall damage the country has seen in years. Amidst the chaos, Costa Ballena rose to the challenge. Neighbours safe on high ground offered help, food, and shelter to those in need. Collection points for food, clothing, and necessities sprang up immediately and hundreds of deliveries were made by individuals and well-organized groups of heroes in their own cars and trucks to Cortes, Palmar, Sierpe and points further south where hundreds were left devastated or homeless. Especially people in the difficult to reach of “las fincas” along the Terraba river and channels were affected.
The locals will speak of this time for years to come.

Good work is still needed. With tourism approaching its annual peak, it is essential we continue to be vigilant, supportive and aware. Crime prevention, animal rescue, environmental education, plastic reduction, clean water, lifeguards and food bank programs are just a few of the areas that require our ongoing help and attention.

Whatever your cause, please stay with it. If you have time to share, money to spare, or even just a hand now and then you will make a difference.

If it all sounds like a lot just remember what we are capable of when we come together.