The Sagunto Adventist Campus (CAS) has been hosting volunteers from different security forces. They come from various parts of Spain to work in the areas devastated by DANA. DANA, or Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos, is a weather phenomenon that leads to instability and severe storms over warm seas like the Mediterranean. Common in autumn in Spain, DANA can cause heavy rainfall, flash flooding, strong winds, and significant damage, particularly in coastal and mountainous areas.
CAS has offered itself as a reception center for students who cannot attend their institutes affected by the storm.
Daniel Bosque, the director of CAS, said, "The request comes from the Ministry, which is trying to locate emergency personnel from different places in Spain who are coming to the Valencian community to help."
CAS Provides Support for Those Helping Valencia
A diverse group of volunteers, including divers, firefighters, local police officers, and civil protection personnel, will travel to CAS to assist in relief efforts in Valencia. The volunteers are from various locations, such as Barcelona, Navalcarnero, and Huelva, and they are offering their services on a voluntary basis.
Bosque expressed gratitude for the commitment of these individuals, stating, "We are happy to contribute a little to alleviate the suffering occurring in Valencia, and we are amazed and thankful for such dedicated people who travel from so far away to help."
To support the volunteers during their stay, CAS is providing accommodations at no cost, ensuring they have access to rooms, showers, and bathrooms. The center has also created a comfortable space for relaxation during their limited free time. In addition, the Ministry is supplying dinner for the volunteers, while CAS offers breakfast and lunch as a gesture of appreciation and solidarity for their vital work.
Barcelona City Guards
Currently, Barcelona city guards are helping with tasks like clearing rubble and cleaning. There are 17 volunteer police officers who are staying at CAS to be able to collaborate in the municipalities devastated by the DANA.
The Barcelona City Guard Corps is the local police force of Barcelona. It operates under the authority of the Barcelona City Council and is responsible for maintaining public safety within the city.
Regarding the accommodations at CAS, the police mentioned, “The treatment we are receiving here is wonderful; we have everything we need. Everyone is truly kind. This has been a very positive experience for us. It’s difficult to witness the situations in the areas affected by the DANA and the challenges the people there are facing. We have fellow volunteers in nearby locations who can’t even take a hot shower at the end of the day. Meanwhile, after seeing the conditions there, we are able to be in a place of complete disconnection and recharge for the next day. It feels like a separate civilization; we truly feel privileged.”
A Supportive Campus
CAS is situated in Sagunto, a municipality close to Valencia that was not affected by the DANA. The institution features two boarding schools—one for boys and one for girls—along with housing for teachers and campus staff. With its gardens, a football field, paddle tennis courts, and other amenities, this educational campus stands out in the Valencia community.
In further collaboration with those affected by the DANA, CAS is preparing a "MerCASdillo de solidaridad." During this event, families will donate toys, books, cakes, and other items. Funds raised will be given to the Adventist NGO ADRA Spain to continue helping the victims of the DANA. What is not sold will be donated for distribution to the affected families and to the Christmas solidarity campaign for families with few economic resources.
The original article was published on the revista Adventista España Spanish website.
