Special Programs

There are many special programs that MdC runs to meet specific needs we identify during our work in the area in and around San Luis Rio Colorado, Sonora Mexico. These include both one-time and annual events.

“Spread the Warmth” Blanket Program (Annual)

Holiday blanket drive

In January and December of 2021, MdC distributed blankets to 100+ families (around 300+ individuals) who live in or around the Besitos community. Many families live without electricity or hot water and the majority of homes don’t have a source of heat. The desert is cold in the winter, with average nighttime lows of 40°F. Blankets are one way that we can help keep families warm.

Capturing MEMORIES WITH FAMILY PORTRAITs

In the homes we visited, we found it is rare to see family portraits or even informal pictures of family members. When families are struggling to provide for their basic needs, a family photo does not often make the list of priorities. As a way to bring some happiness during Christmas, MdC took family portraits as part of our blanket project in December 2021. The pictures were framed and given as a gift during the holiday season. In many of the homes we visit, we find the family picture proudly displayed. We hope to continue this each year so families can mark the growth of their loved ones over time.

HOLIDAY TREATS MAde THE MOMENT SPECIAL

As another holiday gift, we gave out bags filled with hot chocolate, milk, and cookies. We spend a lot of time educating families on healthy eating during the year but we also wanted to provide a moment for families to enjoy a special treat. Through this small gesture, we showed parents and children that we care about them and they are loved.

Weight Loss Program (August-December 2021)

Promoting healthy lifestyles

From August to December of 2021, MdC ran a weight loss program as part of our health initiative. The program was designed to address diabetes and obesity, which are major challenges in the Besitos community because people cannot afford nutritious food and have not been taught how to eat healthy. We had 25 women participate in the weight loss program to work towards healthier lifestyles. The women loved this opportunity and supported each other through their health journeys.

The program

We brought in a personalized nutritionist to help provide a regular personal consultation with each woman and also healthy meal planning tips, exercise classes, bi-weekly weigh-ins, group support, and a regular walking program. Each participant received a pair of sneakers, a pedometer, and rewards such as grocery gift cards. Everyone worked towards individual goals, with the nutritionist checking in about specific issues.

Results

Over four months, these 25 women lost 192 pounds collectively. Everyone made great progress and continues to maintain their health through our exercise and walking programs. Following the end of the program, MdC hired Angelica, a member of the community and the winner of the weight loss program. Angelica runs our weekly exercise class and participates in the walking program.

Food Delivery during the Pandemic (2020-2021)

Raising the standard for serving the poor

Our feed-a-family program delivered groceries to families in dire need during the COVID-19 pandemic. When the pandemic begin, families that were already struggling to feed their families instantly found themselves out of work and desperate. In response, the MdC team went door-to-door in the middle of a pandemic to meet the needs of the community. We delivered food in and throughout the city, including area farming communities.

Healthy Food

Each delivery contained 2-weeks of healthy groceries. A typical delivery included: milk, eggs, lean meats (steak, chicken, sliced turkey, and tuna fish), assorted fruits (apples, bananas, oranges, pears, grapes), vegetables (celery, lettuce, tomatoes, zucchini, avocados, potatoes, carrots, and onions) and dry goods (oatmeal, bread, beans, rice, and oil). We also gave soap, laundry detergent, toilet paper, and—with the help of talented sewers—beautiful face masks.

In-Person Delivery

It was time-intensive labor of love for our team. The program took four days each month. During the first day, our team shopped for food in a major city an hour away. On the second day, the team assembled bags for each family at Francisco’s church. On the third and fourth days, we personally delivered the food to each of the 60 families, making sure to wear masks and stay outdoors for covid safety.

Because of the limitations during the pandemic, team members were not allowed to ride together, so we would show up at a house in a group of 5-6 cars, each holding different items of the food. Many families who received food were in tears, expressed immense gratitude, and shared how they had little to no food in their homes.

By November 30, 2021, we had delivered healthy groceries to prepare over 38,000 meals

The Feed-A-Family program today

Now that the pandemic has improved, we have changed how we administer our feed-a-family program. During the pandemic, driving door-to-door, we were able to identify which communities had the most significant need. We learned that in the Besitos community, many people are displaced migrants, houses are made of scrap materials and lack electricity, and many children do not have access to schools.

Families from Besitos are now enrolled in our programs and we are working with them to identify and meet their needs. Families in MdC’s programs are eligible to receive healthy groceries once a month through the feed-a-family program and use our clean water pump, as well as participate in our medical fairs, education program for children, health seminars for adults and children, and work program for women. The goal is empowerment, where families get the resources they need to change their situations.

Our Super Saturday event is an example of a weekly program that is designed to empower families. Families attend, engage, learn, build community, and are treated with love and dignity.

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