As damage assessment continues in scores of communities ravaged by the double whammy effect of hurricane Ingrid and tropical storm Manuel, Mexican authorities are anticipating that relief efforts for flood victims will be extended for many weeks and months ahead.
Cruz Roja Chapala and the local DIF (family assistance agency) report a positive community response to calls for donations of basic food and hygiene supplies, with the first loads of goods already packed up and sent off to Guadalajara, the next step along the distribution chain.
All DIF facilities in the municipality and the Chapala Red Cross clinic are still operating as Centro de Acopio collection centers. Donations may also be delivered to the Chapala and Ajijic plazas this Saturday and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.Non-perishable food items most in demand are dried pastas, beans, lentils, rice, canned vegetables, tuna and sardines, cooking oil, mayonnaise, salt, sugar, coffee powdered milk, powdered chocolate, cookies and crackers. Cleaning supplies and personal hygiene products needed include detergent, liquid disinfectants, buckets, brooms and scrub brushes, cleaning cloths, toilet tissue, sanitary towels, disposable diapers, tooth paste and brushes, hand soap, shampoo and razors. Clothing and drinking water are not required.