CORUMBÁ BRINGS SERVICES AND ASSISTANCE TO RIVERSIDE COMMUNITIES

Since 2009, the social program "People of the Waters" has been bringing services from the Corumbá city government to riverside communities in the southern Pantanal region of Mato Grosso do Sul. These residents cannot travel to the city without facing hours of boat travel.

This year, around 3,000 people received assistance.

Social workers, dentists, doctors, teachers, and child protection officers took part in the expedition, which over eight days visited several communities along the Taquari River.

Some communities are located 110 km away from Corumbá, with boat travel being the only means of access. In certain stretches, only smaller vessels can navigate due to the river’s depth.

The journey is not always smooth. Three boat engines broke down due to contact with branches and rocks.

There are also challenges related to the weather. In the morning, it’s very cold, with icy water splashing along the route. In the afternoon, temperatures rise up to 35 degrees Celsius (95°F).

Due to the lack of infrastructure, some services are provided outdoors.

Basic food baskets, tarps for house coverings, and seeds are distributed by the team.

Pregnant women undergo necessary exams to check the health of both mother and baby. Doctors perform screenings for hypertension and other diseases. Pharmacists provide medications free of charge.

Vaccines are administered to update immunization records.

Fishermen receive guidance on assistance programs available during fishing prohibition periods.

Additionally, professionals use playful activities to teach children how to recognize and respond to attempts of sexual abuse. This awareness is also extended to adults.

Besides municipal workers, volunteers also contribute by offering services such as haircuts.

The "People of the Waters" program is carried out once a year and aims to ensure that riverside residents have access to the same rights and services as those who live in the city.