The Soroptimist International association has once again reaffirmed its commitment to the most vulnerable neighbours in Mijas with a significant donation made during the Christmas season. On Tuesday, 16th of December, the group delivered a large quantity of food and essential items to the Food Bank, managed by the Mijas Red Cross, and to the association Nueva Cultura del Desarrollo Social Tzoani. The main objective of this initiative is to enable both organisations to distribute these resources among families in Mijas who are experiencing financial difficulties at this special time of year. 

In total, more than 350 families will benefit from this aid. Soroptimist International has not worked alone, receiving support from other groups and organisations such as the Lions Club, Reiki Therapies, GM Cash and the German foundation Helene and Bonnik Hansen.

Regarding the donation made to the Red Cross, the president of Soroptimist International, Daphne Theunissen, highlighted the scale of the challenge they face this year: “Last year we helped 100 families and this year we have been asked to assist 200; this is noticeable when it comes to obtaining products, and what we are able to offer is also thanks to the help of other groups”. This 100% increase in the number of beneficiaries reflects a worrying social reality that the Red Cross is trying to mitigate with its own resources.

From the Mijas Red Cross, volunteer Sonia Aranda warned of the delicate situation the organisation is facing, as it operates mainly with its own funds and contributions from its members. Aranda explained that, while last year they were able to make monthly deliveries to 100 families, the current pressure of assisting 200 people is forcing them to space out deliveries every two months. Those requesting this aid come from all walks of life: from long-time residents of Mijas to newcomers seeking opportunities, including families with children and elderly people living alone who cannot afford their daily shopping.

The bags contain essential items such as sugar, flour, tuna, vinegar and jam, as well as traditional sweets such as ‘polvorones’ to sweeten Christmas for those who need it most.

For their part, Nueva Cultura del Desarrollo expressed their gratitude to the international women’s association that “helps us every three or four months because they know our needs. We are assisting many families, and unfortunately, this year the number has risen to around 168”, said the president of the collective, Tamara Soto. 

 

Theunissen added that this group “has asked us for three things: milk, tuna and oil, which is what they need most”.

For her part, the councillor for Social Inclusion, Mari Francis Alarcón (PP), who was present during the donations, highlighted the tireless work of the three groups and reminded everyone that “at this time of year we have to help a little more” so that no one is left behind. 

Share it with this link: https://mijasint.com/?a=36631