Less than a week after posting on Facebook and a direct email to ANA members, we have garnered 73% of the funds we need to provide food to 50 families for 6 weeks. 

Why 6 weeks?  We began the PAVE the Way program on April 16^th.  The mandatory quarantine began in Jalisco on Monday, April 20^th.   At a minimum, it will last until May 30^th.  That’s how we calculated the six weeks. 

Which organization is the Amapas Neighborhood Association (ANA) working with?  We have chosen to partner with Caritas, a Catholic Church organization, that has been doing this work for over 15 years.  Their mission is to promote and coordinate social works in favor of the poor.  They distribute food to the lesser known and poorer colonias such as Playa Grande, Lopez Mateos and Ramblases. 

What does the money go towards?  For 200 pesos a family will receive a roasted chicken, tortillas, and salsas on Wednesday and then receive fruits, vegetables, and eggs on Fridays.  (PAVE = protein and vegetables, extra)
What is ANA doing with the funds?  We have negotiated prices and made agreements with a local roasted chicken vendor on Calle Insurgentes and vegetable vendors in the Emiliano Zapata market.  ANA Board member, Robin Spencer, will pick up the products and deliver them to one church.  Other Caritas volunteers will then take and distribute to the various colonias.

Why didn’t ANA join other organizations?  We had a two-fold goal:  feed families and help local businesses.  By working with a local chicken vendor and produce vendors, we help their families and those employees stay employed and fed.  We wanted to have a local impact. 

ANA’s goal for 6 weeks and 50 families came to 60,000 pesos.  Any amount will make a difference so please contribute what you can.  Your 200 pesos goes a long way in Mexico.