Most of them lack food, medicine, good nutrition, clean water and clothes. Besides these physical diseases many refugees are suffering frompost-war trauma and mental depression or stress. Therefore, generally the refugees prefer to be silent, are suspicious of every newcomer, are explosive and get angry quickly, etc Many of them spending their time cultivating the land around their tents. They plant maize, vegetables and potatoes, etc. Some of them opening kiosks to sell everyday eatables and other necessities.
Men usually spend their time by gambling or walking around idly.
Children and teenagers lack schools and the opportuntiy to learn reading, writing and other useful skills. The means for other positive creastive activities are also lacking. Considering all these condition and the real situation of East Timor refugees, the Franciscans of the Indonesian Province of St. Michael Archangel has decided to run a programme of helping and serving refugees in Kupang and Atambua. The programme will begin in February 2001 an continue for one year until 2002. By visiting refugees in their tents and attending the sick.