Mexico City, October 2017.
To: YMCA of the USA
THANK YOU FOR HELPING US HELP OTHERS. The volunteers and staff of the YMCA Mexico would like to express our deepest gratitude for all the support given during the aftermath of the September earthquakes that struck our communities. The mobilization of resources, individuals, volunteers and staff from partner YMCAs, area organizations and the World YMCA has been an incredible support. This has enabled us to respond to those who were affected not only in Mexico City but also in the neighboring states of Estado de Mexico and Morelos. In return for your generosity, we want to give you an update with some of the actions that YMCA Mexico has been implementing. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need further information or if you have any experience or resources that may help us in the tasks of providing support to those in need. Sincerely,
Ernesto Gaona Sánchez Secretary General YMCA Mexico
THE YMCA RESPONSE. PEOPLE AND SAFETY FIRST. Immediately after the 19-S earthquake, our main concern was to make sure that all volunteers, staff, members, students and beneficiaries were all safe. All staff were released from work duties to check on the status of their families. All staff were invited to inform about the status of their properties in case of damages caused by the earthquake. Six staff reported affections, and they will be receiving support by the YMCA emergencies fund. A committee of managers lead by our COO, carried out a first inspection of the YMCA facilities determining that no major damages were suffered, allowing us to open our doors to these who needed to rest, take a shower or use Wi-Fi to contact family and friends.
FROM YMCAs TO COLLECTION CENTERS. Community Development Center Naucalpan, YMCA University and the YMCA sport branches: Ejercito, Mallorca, Sur turned into collection centers thanks to the generosity of members who donated canned meals, water, clothes and basic medical supplies.
DISTRIBUTION CENTERS. Four YMCA venues have been acting as distribution centers to deliver everything that has been donated to YMCA in areas where it is most needed. Until today, 54.5 tons have been mobilized and distributed among affected families.
VOLUNTEERS, STUDENTS AND STAFF Have been showing their solidarity at different levels, YMCA staff has organized brigades to provide support, recreation and to channel the donations that have been received; YMCA University students are offering psychological support to those suffering from material or personal loses, post-traumatic symptoms, and others. Young leaders are helping to classify, prepare and distribute hygiene kits; others have been coordinating recreational activities as a mean of distraction for children and youth in affected communities.