Arica, Chile, Jul 2, 2019 / 23:03 pm
The migration ministry in the Diocese of Arica, Chile has announced an aid campaign for the hundreds of migrants facing desperate conditions at a border crossing in the northern part of the country.
The diocese pledged to "redouble our efforts in this humanitarian emergency we are experiencing now."
While Catholic institutions are present along the border and are providing humanitarian aid, the Diocese of Arica said more is needed to alleviate the crisis. It encouraged donations of bottled water, diapers and wipes, fruit juice and milk. Donations are being collected at San Marcos School in Arica.
The diocese also warned that the migrants are receiving insufficient medical care and face poor sanitary conditions. It noted "an increase in respiratory illnesses because of the difference between the daytime desert heat and the nighttime cold. They have gotten sick again and again without the hope of being able to continue their journey."