by Yadira Pacheco
On 15 September, Peruvians mourned the earthquake that hit the central coast area one month earlier and killed 519 people.
Residents of Pisco, Chincha and Ica visited the graves of loved ones and attended masses. Many are still living in camps or in tents in front of their houses.
Little by little life is coming back for the survivors. Businesses are operational and farmers have returned to the fields. However, parents report that their children are still suffering emotional problems.
Most public schools are closed. Many are destroyed or reported to be in danger of collapse. The government is installing prefabricated classrooms, but this will take time.
World Vision is still on scene to assist in the recovery effort.
To date, World Vision has reached 12,426 families in 47 neighbourhoods with food, water, hygiene kits, blankets, clothing, shoes, tents, tools and shelter materials.
Three thousand families have received basic kits containing matting sheets and tools that are helping them to improve their temporary shelters and to remove the rubble. They also received stoves, pots and dinner utensils.
World Vision is distributing warm apparel and schools supplies to affected children.
The organisation plans to set up three recreational centres to help children to overcome and deal with their fears through play and to rebuild at least one school.