SAN NICOLAS — The ongoing Bernhardstraat revitalization effort is receiving support not only from volunteers painting homes, but also from community members helping in their own ways.
For several weeks, Prime Minister Mike Eman and a group of volunteers have dedicated Saturday mornings to improving homes and the overall appearance of Bernhardstraat in San Nicolas.
Among those supporting the project is Maria Garcia Hernandez, who wakes up early every Saturday to prepare food and drinks for the volunteers.
Maria said she wanted to contribute after seeing people freely giving their time to improve the neighborhood.
Her way of supporting the project is by making sure volunteers have something to eat and drink while they work.
Each week, she prepares something different. Meals have included soup, rice dishes and spaghetti, along with water, juice and other refreshments.
Maria said she begins cooking at around 6:00 a.m. so everything is ready when the volunteers arrive.
For her, the effort is something she does with care and appreciation for those giving their time to the community.
Community Support Goes Beyond Painting
Maria’s contribution shows that volunteer work can take many forms.
While some people paint homes or help with materials, others can prepare meals, provide water or assist with whatever is needed.
She said the most important thing is for the community to participate and appreciate what Aruba has.
Maria also expressed gratitude to the volunteers who continue helping improve Bernhardstraat without expecting anything in return.
The Bernhardstraat revitalization effort is gradually becoming a wider community initiative, with each person contributing according to their own abilities.
As volunteers continue working house by house, Maria’s weekly meals provide another example of how small contributions can help sustain a larger neighborhood project.
