Generous Lakesiders support various gift-giving projects for underprivileged children during the Christmas season.
The second annual Sonrisa Naranja program goes a step further, promoting individual sponsorships for youngsters who can benefit from long-term mentoring similar to Big Brother Big Sisters of America.
Last year, the youth wing of Chapala’s Movimiento Ciudadano party lined up padrinos (godparents) to provide gifts and moral support for 200 needy boys and girls aged three to 11. This year organizers have set a goal of reaching out to 300 children.
Persons interested in joining the cause are welcome to register on the Sonrisa Naranja Facebook page or by email to isaac_derecho@hotmail. In return they will receive full information along with a letter from a worthy recipient containing a suggested wish list. Sponsors will be able to meet their single or multiple godchildren and deliver holiday gifts during a festival scheduled Saturday, December 23, 3 p.m. at Chapala’s Cristiania Park.