In response to the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24, various organizations and community groups in Guadalajara have mobilized to collect humanitarian aid.
However, given the logistical difficulties involved, the Mexican Red Cross has not set up physical collection centers for in-kind donations. Instead, it is channeling all support through monetary donations. You can contribute via bank transfer (Account 0404040406, CLABE 012180004040404062) or through the official Mexican Red Cross donation page on its website.
Several independent initiatives are accepting in-kind donations. Note that these are run by civil and community organizations, not the state government. Expat Venezuelans have set up collection points at various locations. High-priority items to donate include: non-perishable food, powdered milk, baby formula, bottled water, hygiene products, insect repellent, sunscreen, and first-aid supplies (alcohol, gauze, bandages). Rescue workers need hard hats, gloves, boots, masks with filters, flashlights, crowbars, and communication radios.
Among the most convenient drop-off sites are:
• Santa Rita 1450, Colonia Chapalita, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Restaurante Salterra, J. Guadalupe Montenegro 2028, Colonia Americana, 2 to 9 p.m. (33 1176 7313)
• Av. Américas 1241, Colonia Providencia, 33 1255 6730
• The Universidad de Guadalajara has also opened a collection center at Rambla Cataluña, next to the Museo de las Artes (MUSA) in Colonia Americana. The center will operate Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and weekends from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., accepting non-perishable foods, hygiene and cleaning products, first-aid supplies, and tools for debris removal.
The Guadalajara Family Development Agency (DIF) is accepting donations at its headquarters at Eulogio Parra 2359, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
You can also donate at the Brigada de Rescate Todos Tlatelolco AC, at Avenida Aviación 4075, Colonia San Juan de Ocotán in Zapopan, 1 to 10 p.m.
At lakeside
Two private non-governmental collection sites have opened in the lakeside area:
• Restaurant Viollca, Hidalgo 113, San Antonio Tlayacapan.
• Coco Concept Store, Hidalgo 455, Ajijic.