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Colombia/Ecuador border crossing

There is a crisis going on in this part of the world.  While you may have heard a little bit on the USA news stations, it is much larger than most of us can imagine. It is in the country of Venezuela and it is impacting every country in this region.

As thousands of Venezuelans attempt to flee the crisis in their home country seeking employment, lodging and an affordable existence, they are overloading the borders with need. The issue is much more complex than I will explain here.  And it changes nearly every day!

I will share some photos of how Ecuador is handling the influx of immigrants who want to come into or cross through their country. This is one way that a nation chooses to cope with a humanitarian crisis and aid foreigners.

Border line for Venezuelans with proper paperwork to enter Ecuador.  Wait time- aprox 6 hours.
Border line for Venezuelans without complete paperwork or with family members who do not have papers.  Wait time- 8 to 36 hours.
Aid station operated by Unicef and Red Cross to assist Venezuelans with health issues, food needs, immunizations, paperwork and anything else they can do to help.
Additional services of Red Cross include help making phone calls and charging of cell phone batteries so the immigrants can check in with friends and families back home.
Although they are empty today, these canopies were erected to give the border crossers some protection from the powerful rains that pass through this area regularly.
These large tents were erected to offer a chance to rest for children crossing with their mothers and pregnant or lactating women. You can see a pile of fresh, wrapped mattresses.
And of course, as we crossed the border we had to leave behind a sticker.  Can you spot it?
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