IAM member Panama Intermoving & Relocation (PIR) has organized a series of relief efforts since the earthquake that struck Panama on October 9, with employees volunteering their time to deliver supplies to affected families, including in remote communities that are hard to reach.
In an update to ePortal, General Manager Mauricio Escalante said that the day after the earthquake, PIR delivered boxes, pallets, and packing tape to the Municipality of Panama to help prepare relief donations. On October 17, staff gathered at the company’s office to sort donated food, water, clothing, hygiene products, mattresses, and bedding, then drove them to Macaracas in Los Santos province, where Mayor Eliecer Cortes Castro received them that evening. On November 7 and 8, the team made a second trip to Cañazas in Veraguas province, where they handed out supplies to families in some of the area’s most isolated communities despite difficult road conditions.
“Despite their initial shyness, they welcomed us into their homes,” said Karen Vásquez, PIR’s quality and coordination director, about the families they visited. “Seeing the endless smiles on the children’s faces made every effort worthwhile.” She said employees of every age took part, from the youngest to the oldest members of the PIR team. Roderick de Leon, a driver and packer, called it “a very meaningful experience,” adding that he was glad to have contributed, “even in a small way, to helping others.”