Life is still far from normal even now for many of the people in need who live in or near Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. High season was still low this year. Tourists are not coming back as they have before. Prices are rising for basic goods and services. Families living in poverty are struggling to feed their children.
However, there are still efforts in place in some areas and programs connected to Children’s Shelter of Hope Foundation to help insure that these poor people are fed and healthy. New Beginning, our Canadian partner organization, is still putting together and distributing despensas (bags of food and cleaning supplies) for about 200 families living in the communities near the old dump. They also recently sponsored a free dental clinic for the people in that area. At La Escuelita, the children are given a healthy meal each time they come for educational support. Some of the families and staff connected to Pasitos de Luz are also still receiving help regularly.
And, my “beach buddy” Terry Daniel, along with some of her friends have been the food angels for families living and working in Mismaloya for over a year now. Mismaloya is a small fishing village about 20 minutes south of the Old Town area of PV with a beautiful little bay and beach area which normally attracts national and foreign tourist for boat excursions, snorkeling, or a day of relaxation while eating, drinking, and playing in the ocean. During the height of COVID when the beaches were closed, no tourists meant no income for beach restaurants, whose employees normally survive only on tips. It meant no sales for the many beach vendors who diligently walk the beach area attempting to sell rugs, blankets, hats, sunglasses, jewelry, and other tourist type trinkets. No boats went out to bring in fresh fish to sell. The zoo and most of the small neighborhood businesses were closed. Terry and her husband, Lee, who live in Mismaloya full time, saw the issues and the immediate need for food, and jumped in with the help of some friends and generous donors. Dispensa bags filled with fresh vegetables and fruits purchased from local markets; along with beans, rice, pasta, oil, and other supplies necessary for a healthy diet are still being distributed to over 200 families at least once a month.
Children’s Shelter of Hope Foundation continues to support all of these efforts as funds become available. PLEASE help us to insure that all of these children and families have food during these ongoing difficult times by sending a donation right away for Project Feed. GRACIAS!