Proof that altruism abounds in the Lake Chapala region has never been more evident than during this holiday season as local clubs, charity groups and good-hearted individuals set out to spread Christmas cheer among underprivileged families in different communities and neighborhoods.
Animal rescue activist Alvaro René Garcia Martinez showed his humanitarian nature by organizing a collection of toys, warm clothing and blankets for delivery to kids and the elderly in Santa Cruz de la Soledad and Hacienda La Labor. The effort is continuing through January 6. Donors wishing to pitch in may drop off items at Calle Calvario 247 in Santa Cruz, or contact him via Facebook or 331-335-6904.
Residents of El Parque opened their hearts to their neighbors in San Antonio Tlayacapan with the December 15 delivery of dozens of despensa pantry supply packages to the town’s Family Development Agency (DIF), as well as a cash gift to purchase new shoes for youngsters enrolled in the Niños de San Antonio project.
The Juguetón 2017 program organized by the San Francisco Parish lay missionaries surpassed this year’s goal, amassing 3,133 toys for needy children at the Chapala plaza December 15-17, despite soggy weather hampering the round-the-clock marathon. Special thanks go to the Juan Rafael Duran Foundation and a number of generous expats who chipped in to the cause.
Local motorcycle buffs supported by various businesses and veterans’ groups revved up the fourth annual Iron Horse Toy Run benefit for Chapala’s Tepehua Community Center held on December 17. Around 400 youngsters showed up to receive gifts from a jolly biker disguised as Santa Claus.
The Lakeside Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation followed suit on December 23, bringing the center a donation of 175 pairs of sneakers.
The Poco a Poco and Civil Protection Brigadistas of San Pedro Itzicán stayed busy throughout the week before Christmas week distributing grocery supplies, toys and clothes among 300 families inhabiting downtrodden communities located at the eastern extreme of Lake Chapala’s north shore. A special feature of the program was the gifting of Shoes that Grow kits containing sandals that can be expanded to fit five sizes.