The city of Messina (Italy) was hit last week by very heavy rains that caused landslips and mudslides. Rivers of mud and water invaded whole villages in the area surroundings the city. Many houses were destroyed, twenty-three people have died while at least 35  are still missing. The Community of Sant'Egidio has been asked by city officials to coordinate the distribution of aid to the displaced families, together with many young people and volunteers who have made themselves available to help.