Join Us in Supporting the “Baby Jared Bridge Project” in Papua New Guinea
11 July 2024
In light of the recent tragic events in the Enga Province, Papua New Guinea, we are reaching out to you with a heartfelt appeal. As you may be aware, a devastating landslide severely impacted several villages in the region last May, causing extensive damage and cutting off vital access routes for thousands of community members.
The Jimmy Nelson Foundation has long been dedicated to supporting cultural and educational initiatives within the communities we engage with. However, in this time of crisis, we feel compelled to respond to an urgent need: rebuilding and enhancing infrastructure to ensure these communities can recover and thrive. This is why we are supporting this beautiful project.
A Call to Action: Supporting the Enga Province Community
In 2017, Jimmy Nelson had the privilege of visiting the Enga Province while working on his project, Homage to Humanity. During his time there, he was profoundly touched by the warmth, resilience, and vibrant spirit of the local people. The connections made and the stories shared left an indelible mark on him and have been a source of inspiration for our ongoing work.
Our Commitment to Sustainable Relief Efforts
The Jimmy Nelson Foundation is committed to supporting the relief efforts and helping the wonderful people of Enga Province recover from this tragedy. While significant efforts have already been made towards landslide recovery, our consultation with our network in Papua New Guinea have highlighted a pressing need for a critical infrastructure project that requires immediate attention: the construction of a steel cable bridge across the Yuat River, a critical step towards providing the community with access to essential medical care.
The Impact of a Steel Cable Bridge
A steel cable footbridge over the Yuat River will be a life-saving addition, providing a secure route for villagers to access essential medical treatment. In recent years, twelve lives have been tragically lost because crossing the river during high water levels was impossible. The heartbreaking story of Samarie and her baby, Jared, is just one example. Naming the bridge after Jared not only commemorates his life but also represents the determination to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Project Details and How You Can Help
AT Projects, a reputable construction company based in Goroka, Papua New Guinea, has agreed to manage the construction of the bridge. On May 16th, 2024, a team of engineers surveyed the land, and the estimated cost for the project, including material transportation, is $246,000 AUD. The aim is to raise these funds promptly to begin construction during the dry season of 2024 (July-August).
Your Support Matters
At the Jimmy Nelson Foundation, our supporters often seek guidance on how they can contribute. We utilize our network and resources to enhance the visibility of projects and ensure they achieve their objectives. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a difference.
Together, we can bring hope and a brighter future to the Enga province in Papua New Guinea.
To donate and learn more about the “Baby Jared Bridge Project”, please visit their website and ‘Go Fund Me’ Page.