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Written by Amanda Moreno
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Wednesday, 16 December 2009 |
It’s a time for giving.
The Sweetwater Rotary Club has been sponsoring a Christmas trip, to Creel, Mexico, for the past ten years and this year is no different.
Cesar Caro has served as the Sweetwater Rotary Club President and is currently Governor Elect, for the Rotary District 5730. He has been involved, in this trip, to Creel, Mexico. The trip provides Christmas joy to the Tarahumara children.
Creel is located 2,200 meters above sea level and experiences cold and snowy winters. According to the 2005 census, its population totaled 5,338. It is described as an old west-style town, without a lot of creature comforts. There area is growing, with new hotels and paved main streets, but it’s appearance has remained the same. The appeal of local restaurants is non-existent.
The Tarahuma are known as an indigenous people and are renowned for their long-distance running ability. Creel is located near the Divisadero, overlook of the “Three Canyons” and Basaseachic Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Mexico.
Their lifestyles have not evolved, as quickly as other areas. They are still practicing the traditional lifestyle, living in natural shelters such as caves or cliff overhangs. Some of them live in small cabins of wood or stone. The majority will migrate throughout the year.
During the Rotary Club trips, they have delivered children clothes, toys, vitamins, school supplies and other basic necessities. Big items must have proper paperwork, before they can be taken across to Mexico, due to the current status.
Thanks to the Sweetwater Rotary Club donations and donations from local residents, club members, and local businesses items are able to be purchased and distributed. Contributions are made in monetary donations because the items are purchased in Mexico.
One of their bigger contributions has been to a Tarahumara elementary school. They provided them with a gas stove, food, yearly propane fuel, school supplies and assistance for a new solar water pump, for the community. At the time, the school did not have running water or electricity.
The Tarahumara Dormitory, which is designed for the high school students, has received computers and food. Other items that have been distributed include basic necessitites, baby items, and a swing set for the small children. They have even sponsored, a class of twenty, so that they can receive meals for half a year.
To further spread the Christmas cheer, the Rotary club has given approximately 1,500 Christmas stockings, to every child the Rotarians meet, on their travels. |
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Last Updated ( Thursday, 17 December 2009 )
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