The Saint Hilary's Catholic Community's once again shared their resources
with the Ngobe-Bugle Communities of Buenos Aires and El Bale in the diocese of
Santiago de Veraguas, Panama. The three projects completed in 2009 included the
construction of an adult education center, furnishing the library and completion
of a water tower.
The community leaders of Buenos Aires asked that St. Hilary provide the funds for the construction of a water tower for the two 1750 gallon tanks. The tanks had been previously purchased by another donor. The water system provides 3500 gallons of water a day to approximately 180 people or about 20 gallons per person. The average American uses 60 to 200 gallons a day. The generous contribution of the St. Hilary Community provided the funds to "give drink to the thirsty."
 
|
|
The "Instituto Educativo Integral" is in the Community of Buenos Aires and serves the entire District of Nurum. Over 50% of the adult population cannot read or write. Education in Panama is mandatory only until grade 6. The founder and director of the Instituto is Father Marcos Escobar, dedicated, energetic, Panamanian priest who lives in the remote region of the Buenos Aires with the Ngobe Bugle. St. Hilary funded 75% of the construction costs of the Instituto and purchased a diesel generator that will power PC's for the students.
The library at El Bale was completed when the representatives from St. Hilary visited in February 2009; however, there were no books, no tables, no book shelves – the building was hollow and empty. Funds provided by St. Hilary have allowed the Dominican Sisters of the Presentation from Colombia to purchase bookshelves with doors and tables.
Panama Project