Providing food to families in need.
Welcome!
Chix Food Bank, began operating in November 2005 by a group of individuals who came together to respond to an identified need in Chicxulub, Yucatan.
In the village of Chicxulub there are about 6,000 people. The main industry is fishing. Of course, this work is at the mercy of the weather and between the hurricane and the norte seasons often the port is closed so there is no opportunity to go out fishing. Therefore we have families who have limited resources to care for their families. We also have elderly people who rely on their children to care for them and help them on a day-to-day basis.
There is a huge need to assist people suffering from many forms of poverty. Your support can change lives.
For only $75 CAD you can feed a family for a year!
There are many ways that YOU can make a difference.
I would like to make a donation
I will be visiting the area and would like to learn more about the programs
We are helping a local soccer team raise money.
Thank you for looking at other ways to donate in the Yucatan. Please take the time to watch the video and share it with your friends! Every donation to the children of Progreso Manchester is greatly appreciated. Many kids in the community will have an opportunity to play on the team with funding.
Current News and Updates on the Chicxulub Foodbank
June Dispensa
The June dispensa was carried out on a bright, sunny day under the watchful eyes of the team. Kay, Carmita, Milo, Jody, Don and Nancy ensured the dispensas were packed on the 14th and handed out on the 15th. This same group of volunteers will continue the process throughout the summer. Thanks to all of them and thanks to the photographers! See you all again in September! Have a wonderful summer.... read more
May Dispensa
Well I am heading back to Canada early this year for my 50th Nursing Reunion. Not to worry as I leave everything in the capable hands of Kay and Carmita and Nancy and Ciro. This May dispensa was quiet and well attended and the heat was already here for the day…30+ by 11 AM.... read more
Community Outreach Pencuyut
In early January, Carmita and her family visited a small pueblo called Pencuyut, a suburb of Tecoh. She heard from her nephews about this village and wanted to check things out. Then we made a second visit to celebrate Children’s day and take out more donations. Pencuyut originally was called ‘ cehn-yuc ‘ which is Maya for “well of the deer”. The legend says when the first inhabitants arrived they found many venison bones. It has approximately 2000 habitantes, there are many aged people and several cases of deaf children. These special needs children have no attention nor go to school. It seems that this area is more affected by the cold winters than we are here along the Gulf. It can get as cold as zero degrees so there will be a collection of hats, slippers and scarves for next winter sent to them. The village maintains itself with milpas where the men grow and harvest corn and there was evidence of buckets of corn being carried on the heads of some women. There are schools that teach from kindergarten to high school with telesecundaria being a satellite program via internet. There are 3 high school teachers working with the young adults. The internet service provided to the village is not strong enough to provide computer and telephone service so imagine seeing the kids playing and chatting together and the adults busy sharing with no evidence of the cel, FaceBook or any other social media! The Food Bank sent donations for the children and some adults and they were very grateful. The house that hosted us belongs to... read more
Chicxulub Soup Kitchen
As promised, we have delivered at least 5 loads of groceries to the kitchen since the middle of March. Dona Ara is always happy to see us with our full boxes. Her clients are also happy when we come. They are serving about 75 people a day. They have a good supply of plastic and glass containers that will tide them over until next... read more
April Dispensa
Needless to say April dispensa was more subdued without many of our volunteers who have returned home for the spring months but we had a great showing. Our 65 families were in attendance and things went smoothly. We had a special visit from the Queen of the Marina 2015-16, Addy Velasquez who visited and helped with the dispensas. We also noted her commemorative plaque on the wonderful anchor that was donated to the town of Chicxulub. Again, thank you to all of you who have left food items and containers for the food bank and soup kitchen and those who left their donations for next winter’s hampers. Without you, this could not happen. Missing Jody Tortilla man Carmita Double load Yahir Our... read moreMuelle Market
Muelle Market 2016 2016 was an amazing year for us at the Muelle Market. We continued to see our regular vendors and meet some new vendors. We were amazed and delighted by the increase in shoppers this year and we watched many leaving with armfuls of purchases and big smiles. Alex, our vendor baker from Classic Delights in Merida, created the most delicious Cinnibuns for the Market this year. At almost every market, there was a line up all the way to the back of the venue, just to get that delicious taste of home. These Cinnibuns will be back for our 2017 Muelle Market. New to the Muelle Market We introduced a few new food vendors this year: Suzu -with her amazingly delicious quiche, Cy -with homemade pizza, Alex-our amazing baker. Guty- with fresh herbs and juices. Bernard with bread, muffins and more. David – with carrot cake , Horso Organics- with amazingly fresh veggies and Ginnie & Eva with Calzones. We also introduced new Artisans: Jorge, Patrica& Ivan with there amazing paintings, Gloria with her stained glass and art, Robin with felting, Miguel with his prints, Gabriella with natural body care products, the Women’s Coop with their unique and beautiful applique designs, Ruth with her ladies Linen Clothing and Nola’s Yucatan Designs with men and women’s 100% cotton tops made from manta. Chicxulub Foodbank We continued in 2016 to assist the Chicxulub Foodbank with fund-raising for 2016. Our Vendors donate products or gift certificates that were raffles off at each Market and the Kitchen donated 10% of their sales. Please remember to support them by buying your... read more
Bazar de Muelle
This is the end of another successful market season. In total there were 7 markets and each one held its own highlight. Who stood in line to buy Anita’s sausages or the scrumptious cinnamon buns? There was always a flurry of activity around Mari’s table or the community table where local service providers promoted their services like massages or bike rentals. Then there was the raffle tickets that everyone bought in support of the Children’s programming for the Chicxulub Food Bank. There will again be summer workshops for the children. Thanks to Nola Marie’s creation Ruth’s linen blouses Nola’s shirts Mujeres de Chicxulub Sausage line-up Cinnibon line-up ... read moreMarch Dispensa
I want to start off by saying thank you to all of you for your help and donations for this season. It is a delight to see how many folks support this project. If it was not for you, the village of Chicxulub would not be able to enjoy the kindness and generosity of the Snowbird and Ex-Pat population. I am including all of you in this thank you which means our year round folks as well. Special thanks to the person who donates fresh tortillas monthly for the families. There are currently 65 families on the roster with another 5 who I will be visiting over the next few... read more
February Dispensa
Packing of the dispensas on the 14th went smoothly with seasoned hands, Shirley and Dave with Andrea and Kay put the packages together swiftly and efficiently. Thanks to everyone who donated beans and rice and the donor who delivered 7 dispensas from Soriana’s. Like the rest of winter, the 15th dawned grey and cool. There were fewer folks standing in line when we started but by the end of the hour, all but 3 families had come for their package. vitamin service Lorraine is back to hand out the tortillas austin helps keep order pauline and james are back..yahoo taxi service from Jody english student Camila Thanks to Wayne 2 for the... read more
Bazar del Muelle
There have been two markets this month and both were a huge success. What was exciting to see but what really floored me was the line-ups for Anita’s sausage meat and for the kitchen so folks could buy their cinnamon buns and coffee. Other vendors were busy as well. Come see in March. Watch for a more in-depth report next... read moreSummer Programming
Carmita and her team did a great job this summer. There was work done on family trees and values and drawings! There was an exciting beach clean-up where the moms joined their kids to clean the beach. The comisaria also was present to pick up the various bags. The Food Bank received a few more volunteers to help out Carmita. The kids and volunteers kept busy with discovering family connections, learning more about Chicxulub and using talent for drawing. End of season party As they did last season, Capitan Flores honoured the volunteers with a fiesta at the restaurant. As you can see everyone enjoyed themselves. Thanks to all of you for your dedication and enthusiasm for the kids and Food... read more
CAPP Program
Lots has been going on even though I am not there. Carmita and Malu and the CAPP volunteers are working with about 30 kids to help them improve the basic 3 R’s of education. The first step was a test to asssess their level of understanding. Then teams were established according to grade level and assigned as follows: Grade 5 – Carmita Grade 4 – Aaron and Luis Grade 3 – Samuel and Aracelly Grade 2 – Malu Carmita and Lina grade 6 Aracelly and Samuel grade 3 Luis and Aaron grade 4 Many children, when they reach grade 6 cannot do the basic math and writing. Watch for pictures as the summer... read more
Community Outreach Pencuyut
The earlier visit has been followed up with two more with the group helping lay a floor in Veronica’s house. She was mentioned in the earlier post. Veronica has 7 children and her husband works the field. The struggle to get the floor laid is that there is no water in the casa and it needed to be carried in. This made the job longer than... read more
Community Outreach Pencuyut
In early January, Carmita and her family visited a small pueblo called Pencuyut, a suburb of Tecoh. She heard from her nephews about this village and wanted to check things out. Then we made a second visit to celebrate Children’s day and take out more donations. Pencuyut originally was called ‘ cehn-yuc ‘ which is Maya for “well of the deer”. The legend says when the first inhabitants arrived they found many venison bones. It has approximately 2000 habitantes, there are many aged people and several cases of deaf children. These special needs children have no attention nor go to school. It seems that this area is more affected by the cold winters than we are here along the Gulf. It can get as cold as zero degrees so there will be a collection of hats, slippers and scarves for next winter sent to them. The village maintains itself with milpas where the men grow and harvest corn and there was evidence of buckets of corn being carried on the heads of some women. There are schools that teach from kindergarten to high school with telesecundaria being a satellite program via internet. There are 3 high school teachers working with the young adults. The internet service provided to the village is not strong enough to provide computer and telephone service so imagine seeing the kids playing and chatting together and the adults busy sharing with no evidence of the cel, FaceBook or any other social media! The Food Bank sent donations for the children and some adults and they were very grateful. The house that hosted us belongs to... read moreEnglish in Chicxulub
Special report from Susan We have had another great year teaching English to the students of Quintana Roo. We had enough teachers and helpers for grades 4, 5, and 6.I would like to thank Karen, Beth, Diane, Mary, John, Brooke,Ruth,Pierrette,Alexis,Ken,Grace,Kitty,Kathryn,and Jim. We had a great bunch of students this year in grade 6.Our themes included:families, body parts, calendar, emotions numbers,etc. Groups worked great as we had up to 35 students. Our last day in the English class we played bingo and each student received a prize. Students also took home their folders(filled with their work) group picture, and a diploma for taking our English class. The principal,teachers, and the students put on an appreciation afternoon for our teachers and helpers. The grade one students handed out Happy cards to the teachers and then sang a beautiful song. Students handed their teachers sincere cards thanking them for coming to their school and teaching them English. Thank you again to all of you who have been involved in our English School Program. If it wasn’t for you this program would not exist. Sue Watch for more photos as they come in. ... read more
Chicxulub Soup Kitchen
As promised, we have delivered at least 5 loads of groceries to the kitchen since the middle of March. Dona Ara is always happy to see us with our full boxes. Her clients are also happy when we come. They are serving about 75 people a day. They have a good supply of plastic and glass containers that will tide them over until next... read more
Prepping for Christmas
Check out the temperature and that was the day in March the industrious group was again sorting and packaging clothes for the Christmas hampers. Some of the group continued into April with wrapping presents for next winter. Santa will be happy with the work of his elves. This season we introduced fabric softener sheets to help maintain a fresh scent when opened in the winter. Then the big finale when a truck was loaned to us to transport all of the boxes to Chicxulub where they are stored for the summer. Join the journey via our picture gallery. ... read more
CAPP Volunteers
During semana santa workshops were held for the children and our CAPP students attended some of them. The topics were a continuation of summer with genealogy, care of the environment and some first aid. On average 25 children attended. Shelley made a donation of 2400 pesos raised by co-workers to get uniforms for the children in the village. We will do the same as before in buying the material and having the uniforms made by local tailors. With holidays over, the CAPP students will continue their own workshops with the children. ... read moreSan Joachin Nursing Home
San Joachin is quieter but no less animated this month with Paula working with the seniors. The group continues to enjoy the exercises as well as the parachute. Thanks to a donation we now have our own parachute and stretch bands to use. The residents enjoy using the bands and do grow stronger every time we use them. I do have to make mention of Paula who has maintained the program all winter with her group of volunteers. Paula has a wonderful knack of connecting with the residents and helping them enjoy the... read more
Prepping for Christmas
Yes, I know it is way too early to think of Christmas 2016 but it is always good to be prepared! And that is what a group of industrious volunteers did in Feb to help with sorting and packaging clothes for the hampers. The expression “many hands make light work” was in evidence as the ladies went to work getting the outfits made up and bagged. Whew! One less thing to stroke off my... read more
January Bingo
Under the B. Bingo. And that’s just what many Canadians play in Chicxulub at least twice during their annual winter sojourn from the north. The fundraiser bingos have been helping the Chicxculub Food Bank since 2009. That first year at the former Bamboo Beach, it raised $12,840 P to help for the monthly cost of food needed for the 77 families. Last year it raised $10,500 P. Why do people like playing bingo so much? It’s fun, it’s a way of socializing and offers a chance of meeting new people. And besides, the game that dates back to medieval times, allows you to win prizes. The full house that played last month at Mamma Mia’s gave it their undivided attention until a green bus called, El Bicho, pulled up across from the restaurant. At intermission some rushed out to satisfy their curiosity. They discovered a couple had been travelling in it for 10 years since starting out from Argentina. Intermission over, it was back to serious bingo playing. Canadians, Karen Evans and Kathy Worrall, are the hardworking bingo organizers who gather prizes,find the bingo callers and run the show. Those lining up their beans to place on the numbers called included people from all over Canada and New York. In the old days, those beans had an even more prominent role because the game was called beano and if you had a winning card, you yelled “beano.” A New York toy salesman renamed it bingo after he overheard someone accidentally shout “bingo”. The first game was played at a carnival near Atlanta,Ga., in 1929. Sharon Helgason, who organized the first fundraiser bingo in Chicxulub says proceeds have helped the... read more
Muelle Market
Yea, Nola was here for the penultimate market and what a day we had. There were 34 vendors and 100s of customers coming to find treasures or sourdough bread or carrot cake. No-one left disappointed and many did not go home empty handed. It was nice to have Nola home and Kay was busy with the Food Bank table and raffle. And then it was the last Muelle Market on March 19th! And what a day! My light box with Katarina arrived and as you can see she was a delight. I have a photo of her with the artist and her husband, with the dynamic duo of Kay and Andrea and then with Madie, the owner of the hall. She was a perfect companion. You can see that Marie was her usual busy self and enjoyed a great day. The money raised by the biweekly raffles has been used to pay for the three buses we needed to take the grades 4-5-6 children to the Parque Cientifico and today the funds will be used for the pilot project of Self-Defense for Children during semana santa. There will also be workshops for the children in the summer and workshops for the parents helping them discover what their values are and how to improve their parenting skills. I will have updates for you as we offer these activities. Now we are done with the Muelle Market until next December and I look forward to seeing you then. From Nola The Muelle Market would like to send out a huge thank you to all the people who attended the... read moreBaseball Camp
Submitted by Brooke: Thanks to our Mexican coach, Luis, the baseball team continued for an additional three months after we Snowbirds returned to the North. We started off again the third Saturday in January with 25 eager players. The following week, we had 37!! Due to rain and Carnival, the numbers were lower for the next two Saturdays but we expect a large turn out on the 21st. We have 8 to 10 Canadian and American “coaches” on any given Saturday and have had 3 Mexican parents on occasion. Our goal, of course, is to involve more parents, aunts, uncles and cousins in the hopes of getting the team back in Mexican hands by the time we all head North again. So, please spread the word that they are needed Saturdays at 9 am in the Chicxulub... read more
Bazar del Muelle
The Muelle Market is growing this year…more new vendors and seeing lots of new faces in the crowd. We have had raffles for the food bank at each the Markets and the goal this year is to raise enough funds to take the children to the Dinosaur Museum. The Vendors have generously donated their handcrafted items and have helped us raise a total of 2060 pesos this month and that will cover the cost of one excursion for the school kids to the Science Centre. We have a Beverage Bar at the new Market and we sell Fresh ground Chiapas Coffee and Home made Cinnamon Buns. We also sell soft drinks and water. Stop by and see Nancy she will be happy to try out her English. The Markets in Feb. will be Feb 5 and Feb.19 The Markets in Mar will be Mar 5 and Mar 19 Our new Location is: D’Mar Salon de Eventos Calle 28 x 21 x 23 Chicxulub Puerto See you all at the Market... read more
Knitting Goodbyes
This year we asked for knit and crocheted hats for the cancer children of Merida and were presented with over 100! We had hats of all colours and sizes made, some with stripes, some with flowers and even some animal faces. They were delivered to the IWC meeting on Saturday March 29th. The knitters, crocheters, embroiderers and the sewers raised funds for the food bank and created gifts for the Christmas hampers. Here are just a few of the lovely hats made… Here are some of the lovely Barbie clothes Alexis made for the naked dolls!! Now won’t that make a few girls happy this Christmas! And have a look at the revamped cushions that will make some moms happy when they open them from the Christmas hampers. . All done by talented volunteers this winter!! We also decided to collect money towards the foodbank and stitchers were asked to donate 10 pesos a visit, this raised 400 pesos. We look forward to returning to our stitching again next year. We hope we will have a few more people next year. At the IWC meeting a table was set up to sell purses and cozies. With the additional sales of the items at the Muelle Market, this brought the total in sales and contributions from S&B to 1400pesos. Well done... read more
Muelle Market
The idea came after chatting with my friend Sharon, who has lived in Chicxulub for years and assists with many humanitarian programs in the village especially the Chicxulub Food Bank. We talked about a way to help the local artisans who handcrafted item as the fishing did not sustain the families all year. So, being a creative thinker and an artist it didn’t take long to come up with the idea of doing a market. Now it was time to start looking around for a local venue for the market. I had only been in Chicxulub for about 7 months at the time and spoke very little Spanish so I incorporated the help of Sharon and her friend Carmita. After seeing what was available, I told Sharon that I had seen a beautiful restaurant in Chicxulub Centro and thought it would be a perfect space to use for a small market. It was then that Sharon introduced me and the market idea to Charlie the owner of Bamboo Beach Restaurante which, was also the home of the Chicxulub food bank. I realized then, that I also wanted the market to somehow help raise money for the food bank. The artisans and the food bank were both quickly stealing my heart. Now that I had found a space I need a name. The name Muelle Market, came to me as I was driving to the restaurant. There is a sign just before you turn to go towards the restaurant and it says in bold letter MUELLE with an arrow pointing down the street. My first thought was, wow free advertising... read more
Guest Blogger- Nola-Bazar del Muelle
The inception of the Muelle Market begins with Nola. This is her story. “When I first went to the Bamboo Beach restaurant to help Sharon with the food bank I fell in love with the beauty and peacefulness of the space and realized that it would be a wonderful venue for many things. At that time,I didnt speak any spanish so we tossed the idea around and decided to speak with Charlie about using the space for a venue for local artisans to have the opportunity to show their wares and earn some extra money. I never expect it to turn into a mulitcultural market for artisans and crafters from different parts of the Yucatan and the world. The Market has taken on an energy of its’ own and has given Charly at Bamboo Beach and his staff the opportunity to earn extra money for the restaurant and and has helped raise additional funds for the Chicxulub Food Bank. The market has also allowed Chicxulub to become a meeting place for friends and family to enjoy a day of shopping and lunch while enjoying a beautiful setting. My initial plan was to have the market for 2 or 3 months in the year while the Snowbirds were here for holidays, but it has been such a success that I thought about having it year round. My plan was to have the market open in April- May- June and September – October -November- December the third Thursday of each while the busier months of January – February – March – July and August would be the first and third Thursday of... read more
English Classes at Andres Quintana Roo
Susan, the co-ordinator for the english classes offered to the students at the local elementary school and her dedicated group of volunteers have done an amazing job once again this year. Each year just keeps getting better and the children are more comfortable trying out their new language skills. It is not unusual to hear children and parents alike saying “hello, good morning and how are you” as you walk through the town. This winter, at Andres Quintana Roo we had another successful teaching experience. We were fortunate to have enough teachers and supporters to have 3 grades of English classes: grades 6,5,and 4. Our aim was to have fun and teach the students some basic English phrases to carry on a conversation. One highlight for the grade 6 students was to put together several kites (letter k) and take turns flying them outside. Students later put their names in a hat and 5 names were drawn. These student took the kites home. There were many fun activities that all the students enjoyed. At the end of our time here the students received a picture of themselves and a class picture to remind them of their class in English. Students have been encouraged to practice their English until we return. Thank you to Marge for bringing down 3 white board for our classes and flip chart paper. What wonderful,useful gifts. I never thought I would get excited over rulers or chart paper,but, I did. Thank you to all the people who have contributed school supplies for our classes,it makes teaching a little easier. A big thank you to all... read more
Bazar del Muelle-Bamboo Beach
This delightful market began in November 2012 and is the brain child of Nola, a Canadian artist relocated in Chicxulub. Here is how Nola explains her creation: “When I first went to Bamboo Beach to help Sharon with the food bank I fell in love with the beauty and peacefulness of the space and realized that it would be a wonderful venue for anything. I didn’t speak spanish so I approach Sharon with the idea and asked her to help me talk to Charlie about using the space once a month for a small venue for local artisans so they might have an opportunity to earn some extra money. I never expected it to turn into a Mulitcultural Market for artisans and crafters from Yucatan and other parts of the world. The Market has taken on an energy of it own and has helped Charly and his staff at the restaurant, the Chicxulub Food Bank, and has created in Chicxulub a meeting place for friends and family to enjoy a day of shopping and lunch in a beautiful setting.” From Suzanne Bourret For Socorro, it is the only way she can provide for her family. For Rosa it gives her hope. And for tourists and expats it affords them a chance to buy authentic and handmade local Yucatan crafts to take back to their countries. The Chicxulub artisans’ market, inaugurated late last fall at the Bamboo Beach restaurant, has provided help to those in need, in a community where poverty lives on many streets. Socorro creates crocheted purses using yarn and silver or coloured pop can tabs. It is the... read more
Guest bloggers – Dennis
Baseball has had a slow start this year somewhat due to the weather and somewhat to delayed organization – but it is well under way now with a core group of 7- 9 volunteer coach/mentors and between 5 and 12 enthusiastic young ball players – depending on the weather and the reminders at school. We have been very fortunate to receive more equipment including complete uniforms – and we were able to return some of the borrowed equipment to the school. Don and Brooke are managing the equipment this year, and Karl is running the practice with the theme based on more fun than practical lessons and everyone is thoroughly enjoying our times together – We play rotational scrub ball which gives all of us the opportunity to play at different positions and to try and hit the ball when it is our turn – the kids are teaching us some Spanish baseball terminology and we are trying to reciprocate with English. More kids are always welcome as are any adult coach/mentors who wish to share an hour or so with us and the kids – even if it is only for one weekend, your presence is appreciated. Visit our blog to read more. March 2nd 2013 We had 11 little ball players show up at the park, including two girls. The kids were all given jersies that Don and Brooke had brought with them this trip and then they played a fun game of ball against the 9 adult Can/Am ‘coaches’ – the kids became so proficient at running the bases that they smeared the seasoned players so badly that the... read moreChixculub Food Bank and Las Mujeres de Chicxulub
As promised more tales about the new location for both the Food Bank and Las Mujeres de Chicxulub. The Route to Casa de Food Bank and Las Mujeres de Chicxulub The house will be known as: in Maya “Un suku’une tia an te’e ; Mi hermano es en la casa; My brother is in the house.” This name honours Vincente Pool who is Carmita’s brother and a famous boxer who is in the Merida Hall of Fame. He was born September 23rd 1952 in Chicxulub Puerto and christened Lino Andres Pool Tzab. He began boxing at age 16 using his father’s name whom he greatly admired. At one point he thought about retiring because he had suffered too many defeats. Then he met a new manager, Jesus Rivero “Cholain” and things changed for him. Home of current “Mi hermano es en la casa”Carmita is circled in blue. She is 6 yrs old.Lino boxer, Niece Noemi, Mama of Carmita and Lino The building itself is almost finished except for final hands on work that we will do now that summer has “sort of” started. Things like unpacking the clothes and displaying them, setting up a “thrift” shop for the village folks and getting the big room ready for the children and their workshops. Of course much will depend on the reports of the virus and the ok to move ahead. On the second floor the sewing room has electricity, lighting and now some tables and other needs to be able to show their work. It is spacious and bright. There will be a garden on the second floor looked after... read more
FYI
June 1st saw some reopening of a few places and the lifting of the Dry Law. We were all excited about this change but it was not as easy as we thought! You had to buy in stores that had delivery and Costco would not deliver to Progreso. If you bought liquor in Merida you could not bring it in to Progreso. So many of us wait for the 15th when next changes occur. The week of June 8th, the fourth round of dispensa delivery continues again with the same expectations for families to be prepared. June 10th brought great news to Julian and Progreso: “I am very happy to announce that today I received the news that the Blue Flag National Jury recognized two #PROGRESO beaches with their international distinctive. The two beaches are the Traditional Malecon and the International Malecon. As of July 2020 these beaches will be recognized and will help in allowing us to build together the new version of Progreso. “ Among other requirements, Blue Flag beaches must offer environmental education activities, display a code of conduct, and provide information about water quality. Garbage cans, water, and restrooms are required, and lifeguards and first aid services must also be in place. In municipalities with multiple Blue Flag beaches, at least one must be accessible for people with disabilities. The government of Yucatan and Progreso have clearly stated the beaches are closed. Progreso will experience a different vacation period in the coming weeks. The local authorities are working so that the economic reactivation of the municipality can occur in the best possible conditions, and in... read more
Flooding in Chicxulub Thanks to Cristobal
Floods form a raging river in Tekax, where police rescue stranded residents. On top of the pandemic and all the unknown that goes with it the Yucatan had to deal with flooding and savage wind!! Much of the damage happened along the cienaga and Carmita was there to show us. She was checking on and delivering help to the folks of Chicxulub. She reported several times how thankful the people are for receiving your help. Here are photos of the streets in Chicxulub, calles 14, 8A and 8 primarily close to the cienaga. Dona Evelia with a sick husbandEvacuated this weekendEvacuated this weekendEvacuated this weekendCalle 12Shopping in MeridaWorking in MeridaThis little girl (see below)Grandparents homeMost of these taken on Sunday June 7th in Chicxulub. Anyone who has walked these streets with me or on your own will be surprised to see these photos.This little girl with her 2 brothers were abandoned by her parents to her grandparents of whom her grandma has had a stroke. Her grandpa is an albanil and fisherman who has no work. Beside her is her grandparents... read moreJune 2020 Dispensa
For me this was a different manner of doing the dispensas. Jody and Carmita were comfortable with the format as they had done it before. But for me it was different. Many of the homes I remember visiting where not as I remembered and many changes related to the weather and neighbours! Some folks came to the house while others stayed at home. Lots of masks and warm smiles! GabriolaRicardo’s houseCristaneDeltaEpifaniaLost everythingFransisca, Dea and MariaTania UrbanaWorkers delivering material People who are needing assistance this month: We met Tania and Gabriela, sisters who are both married, have 3 children and both husbands are out of work and both pay 2000 pesos a month for rent; A family who lost everything; Workers delivering material received dispensas instead of tips; A young woman with 2 children whose husband is frustrated and broke everything they had asked for help including glasses. A letter was posted at the comisario that we have free landfill and one family arrived and took some away. Another manner of help. Thank you for all your responses via Konrad, Food for Children, Canada Helps or directly to my bank in Canada. Since the request went out April 3rd the Food Bank has received $5000 and have helped many people of Chicxulub with both food and clothing during this difficult... read more
May 2020 Dispensa
Hi to everyone. Well it happened again when Carmita and Jody delivered the dispensas. People are getting a tad bored and antsy waiting to get back to a “normal” day. However the needs continue and so do we. PaulinaCristinaOscarFransiscaAdelinaCarmita y Mirna There have been many organizations working in the Progreso area and I want to give them a good round of applause. This will continue until the visus is controlled. Yucatan Giving Outreach nonprofit 3,879 packagesProgreso Relief has handed out more than 1000 packagesChicxulub Soup KitchenPedro Tec Ixil, Chicxulub Pueblo about 100 packages Still on... read more
FYI
Julian Zacharias Curi Office: Out everyday in the area May 4, we begin the 2nd round of dispensas sent by Governor Mauricio Vila. It is important to follow this protocol. 1 Identifies the State Government and City Council teams.2 Use face masks.3 Present your INE or official identification, this is required to keep a check and that no house is missing.4 Answer brief questions from City Hall staff.5 Allow photos to be taken for delivery verification. Finally, for all those who have stable economic situations I ask that you refrain from receiving aid and donate it to benefit citizens who really need it. #ProgresoParaTodos May 5th The mayor of Progreso, Julián Zacarías Curi, decreed a “curfew” in the entire municipality starting this Tuesday, from 7 pm to 5 am the next day. The Town Council approved this measure in a session that took place this Monday. In a live broadcast from his Facebook account, the municipal president announced the measures approved in the Town Hall session. According to him, the measure is to reduce mobility. The action will be in effect until May 18. During this time, the traffic of private vehicles will be restricted throughout the municipality, as well as pedestrians. Everyone will have to stay in their homes. Vehicles and citizens found on public roads will be sanctioned. May 6th: the first death from the Covid-19 coronavirus was registered in Progreso, Yucatán; the victim was a 58-year-old man from one of the colonias on the west side of Progreso. May 7th: a temporary shelter for people living on the streets was officially opened Thursday by Mayor Julián... read moreHome of the Chixculub Food Bank and Las Mujeres de Chicxulub
Work has continued on the house, finishing off the sewing area for Las Mujeres de Chicxuub. The albaniles promised to leave it in a tidy manner. Electrical is going in this month. StaircaseWork spaceFrom the streetRoofUp one level This past week the roof for the large outside classroom was finished. Prepping for roofAfter work party More on the history of the house next... read more
FYI
Your response to my special request amounted to $6100 Can and is going a long way to help the folks out during this difficult time. As this illness changes how we do things, I will include the weekly posts of Julian Zacharias Curi, mayor of Progreso. He has a tough job and is letting us know what is happening. From Julian Zacharius Curi, Face Book page: April 5th: In the Progreso, we are fighting COVID19 by implementing technology with spray drones.We have implemented technology that is already used in countries like Australia, China and Spain to disinfect by dispersing a disinfecting and sanitizing liquid that removes the cell membrane of the virus that causes diseases such as coronavirus, it should be noted that this substance is eco-friendly # QuédateEnCasa and follow hygiene measures, prevention is everyone’s job! As of Saturday, April 4, the following have been detected in Yucatan: 364 suspected cases: of which:63 cases have tested positive; 2 unfortunately passed away.63 are still under study and 238 cases have already been ruled out. Of the confirmed cases, 43 have already recovered: they do not present symptoms nor can they spread. 12 are stable, isolated in their homes, constantly monitored by SSY medical personnel; have mild symptoms 7 of these confirmed cases are hospitalized and in total isolation. Among them, a British citizen, whose government requested humanitarian aid from Mexico, and who was diagnosed here. The other British passenger who tested positive, but shows mild symptoms, is isolated, as protocols indicate, permanently monitored by medical personnel from the health sector. The age range of confirmed cases is from 17... read more
Chixculub Food Bank and Las Mujeres de Chicxulub
The main features of the new house are done but we still need to do the finishing touches like landscaping, sorting the donations and ensuring our families are fine. our workers2nd floorexpensive costfinishing upparty time The house will be known as: in Maya “Un suku’une tia an te’e” ; in Spanish “Mi hermano es en la casa”; in English “My brother is in the house.” The brother we are referring to is Vincente Pool who is Carmita’s brother and a famous boxer who is in the Merida Hall of Fame. More of his story and why we are honouring him in next... read more
April Dispensa
Thanks to all of you who responded to my special request. This has been a very unusual newsletter to do this month because nothing is like the “norm” In total we did 25 additional dispensas for the folks of Chicxulub who are in various states of difficuty. With Carmita’s help this was done quietly and efficiently through the month of April. Carmita and family delivered the dispensas to identified families with care and compassion. Carmita has said again and again “thanks to everyone who knows what we are doing and are willing to assist us. Carmita was looking to help the albaniles, older folks, families with children and those out of work because of the virus. The government has been very responsive to the folks who live in the area delivering dispensas to everyone. Ylipto May y children Haziel and EmilioMagda y Manuel and Angel y AlinaMaribel y sonDamaris, Jessica, Sinai, Berenice, Manuel y mama MaribelSenior lives in casa de cartonReyes Uc and children Bryan & YandelHsb has just had surgery and as 2 sons 12 and 3Antonio Mendoza with Wilderth 7, Antonio and 2 more ages 3 and 2 in his careHenry Gutierrez, albanil with Melisa 3yrs and Alexandra 1. Most of the families are albaniles with children to feed and that is the criteria to assist them. It has not been an easy decision for us to decide these things. Then in week 4 of April Carmita did another 16 families Veronica Castillo 55 y Lorenzo 62Adelaide 74, widow.Evarista y LuisEvilia y MiguelMaria single mom with twinsMildred Dominguez 63 widowReynalda 67 y Ramino 74Silvia 47 y Juan... read more
Muelle Market
We certainly said good-bye to the market that was cancelled due to the Covid Virus. It changed our life in an unimaginable way. Many folks left without saying good-bye to friends, rushing to get a flight home. The Market was a success for many reasons but the outstanding camaradire that suffused the bi-weekly market was truly amazing. The artisans sold many special creations and many people left with full shopping... read moreBingo Season
The Bingo season was also cut short thanks to the virus. However the winning groups who came every 2nd Wed to La Antigua were into the game. The overall support to the Food Bank and our team led by Lorraine and team was... read more
FYI
What an interesting month this is becoming! Most of the snowbirds are gone on repatriation flights or got earlier ones, the beaches are empty as people from Merida are being asked not to come as the beaches are closed! Bars are closed as are many restaurants. Take out is available. From Kitty and it is well said!! Our federal government has so far responded much the same as the US – lots of talk about financial relief to businesses but very little action on stopping the spread of the virus. Fortunately, state and local governments have been extremely pro-active far in advance of the virus’ arrival in Yucatan. There have been only a dozen or so confirmed cases in Merida, all tested, isolated and under treatment. Bars, cantinas, discos, gyms and other gathering places have been closed. Concerts, sporting events, etc. all cancelled until at least April 20th. Restaurants can stay open but can only seat half their usual capacity to provide social distancing and must close at 10:00 p.m. Classes were suspended on March 20th, adding an additional 2 weeks to the Semana Santa spring break. So far, no mandatory shelter-in-place has been ordered but streets are almost empty of pedestrians and vehicle traffic is virtually non-existent. It is Sunday afternoon as I write this and there is not a soul on the beach in Progreso, whereas on most Sundays many local families would be enjoying this simple and free pleasure. It feels like the calm before the storm but people here are taking the threat very seriously and staying at home, at least until April 20th when... read more
Bingo Season
Addendment to Feb.26th report from Lorraine! OMG…as you know Wednesday’s Bingo was the very best ever! It was “electric” with the confusion of moving…that feeling continued throughout the afternoon. Folks luved being crammed into a smaller space as all the smiles & laughter was contagious. Everyone was so generous! It was a magical afternoon. The last bingo was on March 11 th due to the covid 19 virus. Many folks were planning to leave earlier than anticipated and to be safe the March 25th bingo was cancelled. It was a great season! Thanks to an average of 38 players, 26200 pesos was raised for the Food Bank and there were enough beans and rice donated to fill the dispensas for the 3 month season. Thanks to everyone for a wonderful... read more
This and That Sale
Our day at Crocodiles restaurant selling trash that became treasure to others, yielded a whopping $12,500. pesos for the Chicxulub Food Bank! A group of 17 ladies and several of their men got together to collect, sort, price and sell various household and clothing items, along with a small bake sale to raise funds for a project always near and dear to many of us! It was a great fun day with lots of camaraderie!! So save your “stuff” and Watch for us again next... read more
San Joachim Nursing Home
Mens’ Maintenance Group The bedrooms looks good, and will likely not need a second coat. So we’ll concentrate this week on painting the back courtyard yellow. There is a small office near our bodega, a section of the main hallway ceiling area, and the lower interior courtyard walls that need sealing and preparing for painting too. The back area looks really clean now, and the biggest pile of garbage has been hauled away by the town. Ixmael has started construction of the columns for the garbage area roof, and we may be able to place the main beam and joists this week. Our work season is drawing to a close. I am leaving on Mon, March 23, and a few others are leaving somewhere before or about that time. We can discuss when we might have a last breakfast together, and what day will be our last. We’ll be giving the back courtyard area and the small medical office a second coat of paint this week. Placing the joists, beams and ceiling blocks on the garbage area roof is on the list and the back yard cleanup will continue. Prepping the lower courtyard garden area, and painting the front courtyard sitting area are possible chores as well. Tues March 17, 2020 will be our last day. After we have finished work that morning we’ll clean up and head to La Antigua Restaurant, calle 21 and calle 60, for a wrapup brunch between 10:30 and 11:00. I’ll reserve a table for us.It’s our last day of work at the Albergue this Tuesday. A few of us will be helping with... read more
Special Donation
Every donation is special and much appreciated. I hope I tell you how much the Food Bank is very appreciative of all you do. The Food Bank received a generous donation from a company in Chuburna, Emerald Coast Solar in Chuburna. If in the market for solar panels give them a look. I received this email in my email box and I must say it knocked me for a loop!! “Hi Sharon My name is Jo-Anne Hugh and I am with Emerald Coast Solar. We do solar installs throughout all of our beach communities. Whenever we finish an install, we make a donation to a charity within that community on behalf of our client. We also hold a customer appreciation dinner every year and raise some money there also, which we split amongst our charities. With that being said, I have some money for you – $4,575.00 pesos. I thought this might be a good time to get it to you. Please let me know what you would like me to do with the money.” “We feel it is important as a company based here at the beach (we are in Chuburna), that we give back to the beach communities that support us.” Needless to say I responded very quickly and once self-isolation is done we will get... read more
English Class Andres Quinta Roo
What a wonderful experience we all are having again at Andres Quintana Roo Primary School in Chicxulub! For at least 10 years, snowbirds and expats have volunteered their time with the afternoon students in grades 3 through 6, their Teachers, and the Directora, to promote and provide introductory English instruction one hour a week over 10 weeks from mid January through to the end of March. The curriculum at each grade level includes words and phrases for meeting and greeting people, family and friends. It builds year to year to include simple sentences such as ‘I have’, ‘I do not have’, ‘I can’, ‘I cannot’, ‘do you have’ etc. As well, the students get some practice in counting in English. The program is mostly oral. The students are encouraged to talk, talk, talk – to their teachers and to each other – through games and singing.The goal of the programme is to have the students become comfortable hearing andspeaking simple English words and phrases so that they may greet visitors to their pueblo and as a support for their future endeavours in the work force. This year, the students brainstormed with their classroom teachers to prepare thank you cards, in English, for us. They were all special and touching! Thank you, one and all, for this happy, productive, successful... read more
Special Visit – Madison International School
I received an email from a group of Grade 5 students who were interested in how the Food Bank operates. Well, it turns out this group is interested in a project called Zero Hunger and wanted to better understand the workings of the Chicxulub Food Bank. So it was time for a “show and tell” session. Jack Pearson, Edgar Ahumada Robles, Mia Stephani and Natali Bobadilla Ysidro with Carmita The group arrived and we spent a good 1 1/2 hours chatting about Zero Poverty and their involvement. We talked about how we selected the foodstuff received monthly and the importance of awareness in the community. They were interested in the new location and setup of the building. Before they left they had decided to look into how they might help the Chicxulub Food Bank. This group was interested and enthusiastic about their project. Will share more as they move through their... read moreBingo Season
Feb. 12 and 26 were bingo days and each day is a pleasant surprise to see who comes to play. On the 12th there were 33 players and on the 26th xx players. Lorraine did a great job of emceeing the event and especially when she introduced her team! February 26 It was a cold and bitter norte and in spite of that, 52 players came to play. Michelle HRachel VShari CSharon RSusan MHardy soulsHardy souls 2Jeanette BJulie ALouis... read moreVisit from Utah
I had the opportunity to meet and visit with a family from Utah, all 12 of them. What a delightful and happy family. The Carter Family We met up at the Muelle Market and after shopping, we went to Chicxulub and visited Mi hermano esta en casa (my brother is in the house), the new home of the Food Bank. It was enjoyable to show off our new digs and talk about all the energy and work that has gone into the house and what the program has accomplished over the past 15 years. We then walked through Chicxulub to get a sense of how the folks live here and then to the school, Andres Quintana Roo to visit and again meet some of the students, teachers and volunteers in the English program. It was an interesting visit for all. Thanks Deborah et... read more
San Joachin Nursing Home
Men’s Maintenance Group More progress has been made in the front outer hallway, and the cleanup of the back yard garbage area.Tony has organized two new bedroom windows off the infirmary to be installed. Once we have finished painting the outer hallway yellow, we will begin painting those two bedrooms. Discussions regarding the garbage area shelter are ongoing. Ixmael has offered to help with the construction, once the madre has approved a plan. Ixmael has ordered materials for the garbage area roof, and that project will start soon. Hi All, We’ll be painting the two bedrooms off the infirmary this week, and continuing backyard cleanup. It’s Carnaval, but some of us will still be there to work. If you can make it, even for a short time, your help will be appreciated. See you Tuesday at 8 am, Dunc Special Announcement For those of you who don’t know, Bob Turner passed away early Saturday morning. He was suffering from pancreatic cancer. Bob spent a lot of time at the Albergue and made many donations to projects over the past few years. His generous presence and easy going manner will be missed. Exercise Group Paula and her group have been attending every Tues and Thurs at 10 AM and have fun energizing the men and ladies at San Joachim. Carnaval Feb.22nd The Coronation of the King and Queen from the residents of the Albergue is happening at 1:30 pm The Sister in charge must have invited me four or five times and said make sure your volunteers come. I explained that many were busy or had other commitments, she smiled... read more
Muelle Market
Feb. 6th and 20th were busy days at the Muelle Market. Each market amazes me with the number of new faces that are here in Chicxulub! Everyone has their favourite vendors and enjoy their offerings! Remember come visit and say hello. The Chicxulub Food Bank is the first table on the left as you come in. We are beside Roberto who sells fish. MariaThe NY gang with NolaNew... read moreFebruary Dispensa
There was the usual folks, both volunteers and clients at today’s dispensa. Some clients were removed from the client list due to the choice of having cable TV in their homes. Thanks to all of you for donations to the Food Bank. In January and February there was no need to buy beans and rice for the... read more
FYI
This entry will help clear up confusion around the Chicxulub Food Bank and Soup Kitchen. I have heard for a few years now that people are confused about the 2 organizations and people are saying that one or the other is in trouble. The Food Bank has been working now for 15 years and continues to have a solid donation and volunteer base. The soup kitchen, has been in place since 2010 “El Señor de la Misericordia” which belongs to the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, Chicxulub Puerto. The kitchen operates out of “La Casa de Cristiandad” and serves the neediest families in Chicxulub. The Food Bank has supported the soup kitchen since 2011 mostly by taking your donated food at the end of the season to the staff there. We were involved with restructuring the soup kitchen doing things like successfully repairing and replacing the identified problems. Electrical repairs and water pump correction were done by local electricians and plumbers as well as delivering cleaning and staple supplies. Soup Kitchen – Casa de Cristiandad Gardens More gardens Full FreezerDona AraNewwater pump not workingFood Bank Christmas party at Casa de... read more