Voluntary donations and fund-raising activities are the life blood for Cruz Roja Chapala, the essential elements that keep vital services available 24-7 to lakeside residents and visitors.
Operated under legal status as a Private Assistance Institution (IAP), the Chapala Red Cross is a self-sustaining independent organization that receives no designated funding from local, state or federal government agencies. That is why the general public is being asked to do its share by supporting two important initiatives that are currently under way.
On Thursday, February 22, Board President Yolanda Martínez Llamas led clinic staff in the kick-off for the 2018 Colecta Annual, the annual campaign to collect contributions at street corners and public places that will continue through the end of April.
Authorized personnel can be recognized by their distinctive white plastic “piggy banks” bearing the Red Cross insignia and stickers handed out to all donors. They should not be confused with persons dressed in white uniforms who come frequently from Guadalajara to haunt the local highway and solicit donations.
In addition, a benefit live auction is scheduled for Saturday, March 17 at the Centro Cultural González Gallo, Chapala’s former railway station. Items up for bid starts will be on view from 3 p.m., going on the block at 4:30 p.m.
Admission for 150 pesos includes wine and cheese tasting and non-alcoholic beverages for all patrons. Advance tickets are on sale at Yoly’s Unisex Salon, Plaza Bugambilias; Diane Pearl Colleciones, Ocampo at Colón; Poncho’s Deli Market, next to the Ajijic Pemex station; Lake Taco, Plaza Interlago behind the Libramiento Pemex station; and Cosmopolitan Consignments shop, Hidalgo 79, Riberas del Pilar, next door to Nomad furniture store.
Treasures already collected for the event include works by well-known artists, heirloom and hand-crafted jewelry items, a gently used motor scooter, a large gong from Indonesia and numerous vouchers for restaurant meals and at-home gourmet dinners, vacation rentals and personal care packages. Purchases may be paid by cash or credit card.
Anyone wishing to donate additional items is welcome to drop them off at Yoly’s Salon or Cosmopolitan Consignments. Pick-up for large items may be arranged with 24-hour advance notice by contacting the shop’s proprietor Oscar Farias, Cell 33-1194-3222 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
During 2017 the CRC clinic received 18,600 patients for in-house medical attention, not counting paramedics services for home visits or on-site ambulance trips. Its operating costs average 280,000 to 300,000 pesos per month. The fund-raising goal set for the Colecta period is 500,000 pesos.