Buenos Vecinos de Boquete at year’s end is pleased to report that we continue our efforts to feed the needy in our community, and we could not have done that without your amazing generosity! On average, we are providing nonperishable food to 95 families a month, with a monthly expense of over $3,420 for those food items.
Food is our only expense; we have no administrative costs. We are a very small team of nineteen volunteers, making a big impact on the lives of the families we serve. Most of our families are indigenous, elderly, single moms, handicapped, or those struggling to support a handicapped family member.
Ro-Her in Boquete is our food supplier. The company delivers the food to the Fundacion Pro Integracion building (across from Chop Sticks restaurant) where we gather every month for a lively morning of sorting and packing. Some of our families (those who receive the services of FPI) retrieve their packages right there, while other food packs are delivered to the homes of our clients by our volunteers.
How does Buenos Vecinos meet our monthly expenses? We organize Food Drives, venta de patios, and fundraising events, but most importantly, we depend on financial donations. Our group of 62 Coconut Foundation members are the superstars! These generous people commit to an annual minimum donation of $360 which covers the cost of one family for a year. Of course, there are many more modest donations, all of which add-up, and are most welcome!
As we start the New Year, we want to involve our donors more closely with our activities, and plan to introduce a program where those interested can ride along for a food delivery and meet the families. If you would like to participate, please contact me. As we end the year, we send our sincere thanks to everyone who has supported us in our work to feed the most needy of our community’s neighbors. Truly, that is a holiday blessing!
Louise Orr, Chairwoman, Buenos Vecinos de Boquete
One of our food drives which are an important fundraising source for us
Our monthly food packing at Fundacion Pro-Integracion
The trail to the home of one of our clients
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