The berth of a 40' container

It seemed like last week was a week of culminations.  The USNS Comfort arrived, we had one new project approved, and we berthed our 40' container of national emergency supplies.  We have been working on this berthing since September.  Our first container was diverted to St. Lucia during tropical depression Nicole.  After that, we began to prepare all the paperwork to get custom clearances and a GCT (general consumer tax) tax waiver of 17.5% of the total value and import duty of 40-60%.  We then had to get a clearance from the Coconut Board to import the 12,500 bars of soap that are part of the hygiene kits. 

Customs inspector, doc worker, and shipping broker

This container will be permanently berthed behind the Spanish Town Chapel as a first line emergency response for hurricanes, natural disasters, and civil unrest.  Last year, we didn't have access to these supplies and they were sorely needed.

Customs inspectors verifying that the contents match the paper work

The Ministry of Finance called us on Monday to say that our custom and tax waivers had been approved.  We immediately called the shipping broker and scheduled a customs review and deliver to the site.  This all came together on Wednesday.

Backing our container through the chapel gates. No small feat.

The crane lowered it into place.

It will need to be painted even though it says Glory on the side.

Our hearts are full of thanks to everyone who contributes to the Church's Humanitarian program.  This container is going to be so valuable to us!!  As you can see, it doesn't match the building, so we'll spring for some paint.

After last week and these next two weeks, we are going to take a couple of P-days and go to a tropical part of the island.  Upcoming events are building the first chicken coops, delivering 95 beehives, teaching square foot gardening, and teaching dry pack canning.